Shohei Ohtani has been the most coveted free agent in Major League Baseball history. Now, a free-agency frenzy for one of the biggest stars in professional sports is reportedly nearing its conclusion.
Ohtani never intended to drag out the process. The 29-year-old made it clear to MLB teams from the beginning that he didn’t want his free agency to become a spectacle. While a few clubs went against his wishes, publicly confirming visits with the two-time AL MVP, it seemingly didn’t influence his decision.
- Shohei Ohtani stats 2023:Â .304/.412/.64, 44 home runs, 102 runs scored
Now, following the 2023 MLB Winter Meetings and with weeks of baseball’s free-agency frenzy remaining, it appears the face of MLB is poised to make his decision in a matter of hours.
According to Jon Morosi of MLB Network, Ohtani’s decision is imminent and could potentially come as early as today. While five teams remain in the mix to sign the superstar, it appears one club’s odds are rapidly improving.
- Shohei Ohtani career stats:Â 171 home runs, 437 RBI, .274/.366/.556, .922 OPS
Morosi added during a live report on MLB Network that the Toronto Blue Jays, who met with Ohtani earlier this week, have significantly improved their standing. While the Los Angeles Dodgers were once viewed as the favorites, it appears to now be a battle with Toronto.
“As of the middle of this week, there were still five teams involved we believe. I do know this, momentum has built for the Blue Jays. I’ll stress and say we do not have this confirmed as to where he’s going to go. Just that in the last several days, the Jays have certainly improved their standing.”
Jon Morosi on the market for Shohei Ohtani
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The New York Yankees effectively took themselves out of the running by acquiring Juan Soto. While the Los Angeles Angels remained involved heading into the week, the expectation has long been Ohtani wouldn’t wear an Angels’ uniform again.
Ohtani’s list of finalists isn’t known fully, but it does reportedly include both the Dodgers and Blue Jays. Both teams are recognized as World Series contenders heading into 2024, offering Ohtani the opportunity to compete for a championship and to share the spotlight with other stars.
