$500M Shohei Ohtani Free Agency Hits the Fast Lane, Who Are the Favorites in the Race?

Shohei Ohtani has proven to be the biggest target to aim for in this offseason’s free agency market. While several teams are still in contention, nothing has been disclosed as to where his deal is headed as of now. Fans will probably receive an answer to that by the end of next week, according to several reports. On that note, let’s take a look at the top teams who are still willing to pay a hefty sum of $500 million or above to clinch the two-way phenom for their dugout next season.

Shohei Ohtani has been predicted to receive a deal worth $500 million or more, as per market reports. While a few big-money clubhouses have already shifted their focus elsewhere, many other teams are willing to put all their money on the Ohtani bet. 

Four Teams standing on the front-lines of the Shohei Ohtani free agency trial

According to MLB insider Jon Morosi, they are set to receive the final take within the next week. Six of the 30 MLB teams, in particular, are still heading strong in the contention. As per the seasoned baseball journalist Jeff Passan, the remaining four contenders left standing in the Ohtani sweepstakes are the Los Angeles Dodgers, the Chicago Cubs, the Toronto Blue Jays, and the Angels.

The Los Angeles Dodgers are still holding the favorite position to clinch Ohtani. With their history of several past persuasions, along with their willingness to change their lineup to make it to his liking, they have left no stone unturned when it comes to making efforts.

The Chicago Cubs have a history of not revealing details of their moves until they have been made, much like Ohtani is dealing with his offers at present. The Cubs have been on to Ohtani since it started, patiently waiting to make an underhanded move. In what can be termed the most surprising change of events, the Toronto Blue Jays have emerged as the dark horse of the Shotime race. They can afford him if they move things around.

According to Passan’s report, alternative contenders such as the Boston Red Sox, the Texas Rangers, and the New York Mets are shifting their focus to explore other potential options. In a surprising turn of events, One team has emerged as the dark horse of this high-priced (probably the highest MLB has ever seen) race.

Underdogs of the race—and a bonus dark horse!

It is not unknown that the San Francisco Giants are in dire need of getting an enormous face for their team after missing out on so many chances in the previous seasons. They could also do with some dynamic energy gracing their hitting lineup. It makes sense why they are not letting go of the Ohtani dream just yet. 

Moreover, as previously discussed, the geographical location of the Giants could potentially confer them with a strategic advantage. There have been persistent reports indicating that Ohtani has a preference for staying on the West Coast, a factor that could work in favor of the Giants.

Read More: Dodgers Remain Shohei Ohtani Favorites as Other Teams Creep Into the Race With Crucial Winter Meetings Nearing

FOX Sports MLB Analyst Jordan Shusterman, among those weighing in on the matter, has chosen the Giants as his pick. However, the consensus remains uncertain, as opinions diverge on the matter.

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