Home/MLB

There is more than one reason for Shohei Ohtani to pick the Toronto Blue Jays. While the much-awaited news on the free agency is drawing to a close, the optimistic fans of Toronto begin their countdown. As that happens, yet another factor comes into perspective, increasing the likes of Ohtani with the Jays. 

With the Los Angeles Dodgers, the Angels, the San Francisco Giants, and the Chicago Cubs as the other finalists, the Blue Birds seem to now be the frontrunners in this chase. Shrouded in the blanket of misty conjecture, the two-way phenom’s alleged soft corner for Rogers Centre is dominant. 

Shohei Ohtani Likes Rogers Centre’s Mound

ADVERTISEMENT

Article continues below this ad

This is a flashback to last August when the 2x unanimous MVP was with the Halos playing against the Blue Jays at Rogers Centre. Referring to the Reddit post by caoryn1484, LA won that game. Amid high-fives and cheers, there was a moment when Ohtani stepped back to take a quick look at the mound, attempting to check the “feel of the mound again”. With that, two things can be drawn. 

One, Shohei Ohtani, potentially liked the mound. Two, as someone who barely makes a statement or reveals information, his comment on the ballpark’s mound had a special significance. Well, there is evidence to strengthen both those points too. In the post-game interview, he mentioned that he especially liked the view from the mound. If that’s not a peek into his inclination then what is? 

That incident, coupled with the likes of a potential Blue Jays-Ohtani union, poses as a great possibility. If there is any truth in the chatter and the signing were to happen, it’s safe to say that this mound definitely would have played a role in that decision. That said, it is also worth considering why this union might work out for both parties. 

ADVERTISEMENT

Article continues below this ad

What Could a Blue Jays-Ohtani Union Mean for Both of Them?

Ohtani’s association with the Blue Jays may result in more foreign interest in this team that’s the only non-American one. Business-wise, Ohtani’s move would be a harbinger of to a rise in interest in Jays tickets for games at Rogers Centre. Following that would be a boost in food and merchandise sales for the team’s owner, Rogers Communications. 

Read More: Will Mike Trout and Shohei Ohtani Ever Play Baseball Together Again? Only One Team Is Capable of Hosting Both Stars

ADVERTISEMENT

Article continues below this ad

Additionally, this AL East team would serve as a perfect environment for the Unicorn to nurture his skills in a way that his future career goals align. Well, as one knows, Ohtani’s current aspirations are to be with a growing team that has a winning capability. All this sits well considering the Jays’ 2023 season. Having said that, this nail biting wait might end any moment. 

Watch This Story: An Apple Of The Japanese Ace, Ohtani’s Eyes Conveys His Endearing Bonding With His Furry Friends