Devastating Shohei Ohtani Injury Breeds $500M Free Agency Doubt as Fans Debate Elite List: “He’s Getting Tommy John”

In the current MLB sphere, the Los Angeles Angels star Shohei Ohtani is the most talented player. The Japanese star has ruled the league because of it since his debut in 2018. And has transformed his career into an example for others, after starting it on a big promise. Because of it, the 2021 MVP has become the most admired, followed, and loved baseball player in the league. It has also increased demand in the market, which has reached the estimates of more than $500 million. But it seems there is some variation in this because of the recent troubles.

Having multiple skills is bliss. And because of it, Ohtani is already ahead of many star players during comparisons. But it looks like Ohtani might lag behind many stars. It all has happened due to his latest fatigue and injury issues. And with Ohtani slated to undergo a Tommy John surgery, there are projections of a dip in his soaring high contract value. However, many still think that Ohtani will match earlier estimations. But there is a visible conflict in fan conversations after the latest elite list.

Where Will Shohei Ohtani Stand on the List of Elites Is the Question

There are only a few players who get the luxury of having contracts on their terms. And much of it because of their talent and past performances. It could be visible in the list of highest-paid players who are earning millions because of their impact contribution. Whether it’s Mike Trout ($426.5 million), Mookie Betts (365 million), or Aaron Judge ($360 million).

But a lot of factors also go into deciding the price. It includes their current age, average playing years left, and injury issues. All three are the reason behind Trout’s, Betts’s, and Judge’s contracts. All three players have signed contracts in their later 20s and early thirties, with projections of them playing for a decade more. Their contributions over the years have also led to them getting big bucks. Because of this, teams compensate for the accusation costs.

But because of the injuries, the situation changed. Teams don’t want to risk for the players who are unlikely to play for the desired period. Trout’s and Judge’s injury has brought this question into the picture. The same is the issue with Ohtani. Although he is a skillful player and is young, his second ligament tear injury in four years has brought a question mark on the longevity of his MLB career.

And this is also pulling down his soaring contract estimations, with teams not finding him an option for at least a decade more. Though given the physical aspect of the game, injuries are common, and many fans feel that Ohtani is good for a higher contract. Though there are variations.

The Baseball Community Is Divided Over Ohtani’s Contract

There is no doubt the baseball community loves Ohtani. They also want respective teams to go for the Two Way phenom. But not at the cost of the team. And with the latest injury, their zeal for Ohtani named jersey has got a setback.

Read More:- Upsetting Treatment Of Shohei Ohtani Might Cost LA Angels’ MLB’s Highest Paid Player’s Exit

They have shown the same while projecting his next contract value. Many have found him to be a perfect future asset, but few think he won’t play for the next decade. Here are a few of the reactions on the same.

But few fans are still hopeful of him getting the highest contract.

Well, there is a total divide among fans. His latest is possibly the reason for it. What are your thoughts on this latest projection? Will Ohtani make a comeback and top the list or will fall in between? Let us know what you think in the comments section.

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