Shohei Ohtani accepted a $700M, 10-year offer from the Los Angeles Dodgers on Saturday
The Japanese superstar therefore remains in Southern California, after six campaigns with the Los Angeles Angels.
“This is a unique and historic contract for a unique and historic player,” said Ohtani’s agent Nez Balelo of CAA Sports, in a press release. He is delighted to begin this partnership. His contract is structured to reflect a real commitment on both sides to long-term success. »
Most Valuable Player in the American this year, Ohtani made the announcement of the new pact via Instagram.
“To all fans and everyone involved in baseball, I apologize for the delay in making a decision. I decided to join the Dodgers,” wrote the 29-year-old Japanese.
“First of all, I would like to express my sincere gratitude to the entire Angels organization and fans who have supported me for six years, as well as to everyone involved at the clubs who were part of the negotiations. »
“I particularly salute the fans of the Angels. Your tireless support has been extremely appreciated. The six years spent with the Angels will always remain engraved in my heart. »
“To all Dodgers fans, I pledge to always do what is best for the team and give my all to give my best. There are some things that cannot be done justice in writing, so I would like to discuss them further at a press conference (later). »
Toronto option ruled out
Ohtani has 44 home runs and 95 RBIs this season, appearing in 135 games.
In 23 starts, he was 10-5 with a 3.14 ERA.
Some observers thought Ohtani would choose the Toronto Blue Jays, following rumors that he visited the team’s complex in Dunedin, Florida.
Ohtani will not pitch in 2024, recovering from elbow surgery.
A left-handed hitter, he will enhance an already very solid group with the Dodgers.
The club won 100 games that season, before being swept in the second round by the Arizona Diamondbacks.
Ohtani has established himself as an exceptional player at the plate and on the mound, when healthy.
As one of the most in-demand athletes on the planet, he is sure to increase ticket sales, television audiences and sponsorship revenue wherever he goes.
Ohtani was a unanimous choice as the American’s Most Valuable Player in 2021 and 2023 (he finished second in 2022).
This year, he had the honor despite an elbow injury at the end of August and an oblique injury at the beginning of September.
His overall batting average is 274 with 171 home runs, 437 RBIs and 86 stolen bases.
As a pitcher, he has a 39-19 record and a 3.01 ERA.
He has 608 strikeouts in 481 and two-thirds innings.