Blue Jays to Chicago Cubs: 5 Shohei Ohtani Free Agency Destinations That Fly Under the Radar

While teams have lined up for Shohei Ohtani, only a select few command the most attention. Names like the LA Dodgers, Texas Rangers, and LA Angels are considered ahead in the race for a variety of reasons. But they are not the only ones vying for Shotime’s attention. Due to complete silence from Ohtani’s side, there is a chance that he will make a surprising decision, which gives underrated teams an opportunity to shine.

That raises the question, what are these clubs offering that might attract the Japanese phenom into entering their fold? Something extraordinary with a chance of winning?

Five underrated destinations for Shohei Ohtani

Chicago Cubs

While the North Siders are still a bit far from their highs, they are getting closer than ever before. The signing of Craig Counsell shows their ambitions and that can certainly attract Ohtani. The Cubs have one of the deepest histories in MLB today. As a man who values legacy, this could be an attractive scenario, especially when one of the most enduring memories of their stadium is the home run of another two-way legend – Babe Ruth in 1936.

Toronto Blue Jays

The Blue Jays can give Ohtani something that most teams can’t. A comfortable homely vibe due to a rising Japanese diaspora in Toronto. Another major attraction is the postseason. In the last 4 years, they have qualified for the playoffs 3 times. For a player who has never played in October, it’ll be a big point of interest.

San Francisco Giants

The Giants are a prime example of bad luck when it comes to free-agent signings. Every player they are linked to ends up signing with someone else, be it Aaron Judge or Carlos Correa. Things just do not work out for them, but they have consistently shown their willingness to give big contracts. Could their bids succeed and bring the AL MVP to them?

Read more: Shohei Ohtani’s High-Stakes Free Agency Fuels DH Swap Debate Between Dodgers and Angels

Boston Red Sox 

The Red Sox have one very big advantage that they can exploit. Shohei Ohtani reportedly loves Fenway Park. The team has a good roster and needs only a few additions to become competitive again. Baseball’s unicorn could surely want to go to one of the most historical teams to have ever existed.

Houston Astros

The most successful team of recent years, they have won 6 of the last 7 AL Division West titles. The Stros will guarantee him a postseason owing to their big spending habits. Though they are not as heavily after him as some of the other clubs, the Astros make a very good case.

With so many teams after Ohtani, the race has just begun. Will Shohei Ohtani surprise us all with his choice again?

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