The Toronto Blue Jays are the latest team to place a bid in the Shohei Ohtani raffle.
Looks like Ohtani has whittled down his choice of possible landing locations on the second day of free agency after it appeared that the Los Angeles Dodgers, Boston Red Sox, or New York Mets would be the initial favorites to sign the two-way phenom. The San Francisco Giants and the previously mentioned Dodgers and Blue Jays are among the teams that are still in the running.
Ohtani’s actual decision-making date is unknown, but, certainly, he will most likely decline the Los Angeles Angels’ qualifying offer, which he turned down last month. According to ESPN’s Jeff Passan, the Red Sox, Mets, and Texas Rangers turned their attention to other players. It appears that the Chicago Cubs have also withdrawn from the competition.
After a few talks on December 4, the Jays became clear favorites. Because of “scheduling conflicts,” general manager Ross Atkins was not in Nashville to speak with anyone face-to-face, according to The Athletic. Rather, Ohtani met with the team in their Florida complex.
According to Atkins, “the fact that we can potentially trade for really good players and attract marquee free agents is a very, very good starting point and one that we are embracing.” “Listen, we’re going to do all in our power to improve our team, so those are the expectations. Baseball is a very competitive sport, and there are some players that every team wants to have. We will therefore make every effort to strengthen this excellent staff. And there are numerous ways that could transpire. We’re working really hard to make that happen.
Regardless of the contract he signs, Ohtani’s next deal is expected to be worth at least $600 million. Additionally, it is anticipated that the contract would be lengthy—up to 12 years.
Although MLB insider Jon Paul Morosi claims that Ohtani may decide within the next week, Ohtani intends to keep his decision-making and thought process on a new team private.
