MLB analysts brainstorm the likelihood of top-tier teams signing Shohei Ohtani in free agency
Shohei Ohtani is a wanted man, and many predict that the Japanese superstar could be baseball's first $500 million man.
His impending free agency has taken the baseball fraternity by storm, with numerous teams itching to add him to their roster.
Where do you want to see Shohei Ohtani land in free agency?
#MLBTonight discusses which teams could be in the running to sign the Angels star.
@TheMayorsOffice | @RoFlo https://t.co/pbYxU2bj7o
"Where do you want to see Shohei Ohtani land in free agency? #MLBTonight discusses which teams could be in the running to sign the Angels star. @TheMayorsOffice | @RoFlo" - MLB Network, Twitter
Ohtani is a hot topic at the moment, with pundits questioning where he could be headed.
MLB Tonight speculated possible options for Ohtani, pointing out that the Bronx's mega teams would be in contention.
"I think the Yankees and the Mets factor in huge now. I think now the Mets and the Yankees are in no doubt going to be in a bidding war for big money, for Ohtani," broadcasters were quoted saying on MLB Tonight.
Arguably one of the best players in the league, it is no surprise Ohtani is destined for a blockbuster transfer.
Pundits believe that there is one man who could award Ohtani the $50 million a year contract that he deserves, and that's none other than Steve Cohen, owner of the Mets.
"Especially with Stevie Cohen being there in New York. He's the one guy that pops into my head that says he could give Shohei Ohtani that contract we've never seen before, that $50 million a year price tag."
Other teams in the running for Ohtani's signature are the Chicago Cubs, the Toronto Blue Jays, San Francisco Giants, Seattle Mariners, and the San Diego Padres.
Shohei Ohtani’s questions to MLB teams. https://t.co/sXiaegjbTr
"Shohei Ohtani’s questions to MLB teams." - Rob Friedman, Twitter
New York Mets seem to be the frontrunners to sign Shohei Ohtani
The New York Mets have shown a willingness to spend and spend big with Steve Cohen at the helm.
With numerous prospects on hand to offer in exchange for the Japanese wonder, the Mets are in pole position to sign him.
Sources have also mentioned that if Ohtani were to leave, he would wish to be traded to the Mets.
Per Sources Shohei Ohtani’s agent Nez Balelo informed the Angels if he were to be traded he wishes to go to the Mets. Mets GM Billy Eppler was the GM in Anaheim when Ohtani signed and yesterday Balelo said Ohtani’s bond with the Angels and Eppler was why he signed there. #LGM
"Per Sources Shohei Ohtani’s agent Nez Balelo informed the Angels if he were to be traded he wishes to go to the Mets. Mets GM Billy Eppler was the GM in Anaheim when Ohtani signed and yesterday Balelo said Ohtani’s bond with the Angels and Eppler was why he signed there. #LGM" - Mets Report, Twitter
While Ohtani has remained coy about his future, you can be sure that if he continues playing the way he does, only the sky is the limit.