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via Getty

via Getty

The MLB world is laser-focused on Shohei Ohtani‘s free agency. Since his exit from Los Angeles Angels is more or less confirmed, fans have been trying to guess a suitable landing spot. The team’s geography was the priority at first, but recent reports bring a different opinion. Location is important after all, but something else might be a deal-breaker.

The ongoing GM meetings have focused mainly on the two-way phenom’s next destination and his requirements. But Jon Morosi has confirmed that the slugger would prioritize the team’s record more than anything. While pundits have been predicting West Coast teams because of Ohtani’s rumored preferences, new ideas have been presented for analysis.

Shohei Ohtani Speculation Finds a New Route

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As the offseason progresses, teams are approaching players in earnest. Shotime commands attention at the top of the free agent list with rumors flying wild. Amidst the chaos, MLB insider Jon Morosi is adding to the debate, “He (Shohei Ohtani) is probably less concerned about geography and more concerned about the quality of the team he is going to.”

While it’s not something shocking, it does add a new layer to the speculation. The two-way star is an ambitious ballplayer who has made his path to MLB from a little village in Japan. Even with numerous milestones to his name, the World Series trophy has remained elusive in his 6-year MLB career. Naturally, Shotime probably wants to use this opportunity to land a team with excellent potential to help him reach his goal. But there’s another factor – the massive expected contract.

Even Morosi pointed out, “Yes, money is going to matter.” Per him, the Japanese pitcher may remain in Los Angeles, not with the Angels, but with the Dodgers. The primary reason behind this prediction is that they are a West Coast team. Another one points out that can offer him the value he wants. But $500 million or not, Ohtani will probably break the record of the maximum number of teams chasing a free agent.

Shohei Ohtani May Get Up to 20 Offers This Season

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This winter, the two-way phenom will probably set two records. One is to get the most valued contract, and the other is the number of teams chasing him. Previously, hyped players like Bryce Harper and even Aaron Judge received less than five total offers during free agency, but insiders predict Ohtani could receive ten this season. This may even increase further to 20 because let’s be honest, all 30 teams want him but can’t afford his price tag.

Read More: As Shohei Ohtani Dominates GM Talks, New Trend Emerges During Competitive Free Agency Market

While the Los Angeles Dodgers have always been the preferred ones, other teams like the Texas Rangers, New York Yankees, and San Francisco Giants emerge as scary possibilities to sign the 21 century Babe Ruth.

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