Abhishek Kumar is a Primary Editor and Writer for MLB at EssentiallySports. A movie fanatic and a die-hard sports fan, Abhishek developed his love for baseball after watching Moneyball. A post-graduate in Journalism and Mass Communication, Abhishek has been in the media industry for over three years. Before joining EssentiallySports, Abhishek worked as a Sports Sub-Editor at APN News.

Although it’s been only a few days since the World Baseball Classic got over, it still feels like yesterday. With Team Japan winning the 2023 championship, they are now the only team to win three WBC tournaments. With this win, the two-way phenom Shohei Ohtani [https://www.essentiallysports.com/tag/shohei-ohtani/] established himself as one of the best not only in MLB but in the whole world. The WBC champion Ohtani’s free agency is still the regular season away. But it is already one of the hot topics right now in the entire league. And now, the Japanese star player has finally spoken about his impending free agency. After a recent interview, USA Today reported that [https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/mlb/columnist/bob-nightengale/2023/03/24/shohei-ohtani-los-angeles-angels-wbc-playoff-atmosphere/11539280002/] even if things do not change before he enters free agency, the Angels’ star has his priorities set before he tests the free agency waters. WILL SHOHEI OHTANI WIN A RING BEFORE HIS FREE AGENCY? Since 2014, the Los Angeles Angels have not entered the post-season. In 2022, the team, including Ohtani, tried their best but could not win over 73 games in the regular season. With Shohei Ohtani all pumped up with the World Baseball Classic energy, things might turn out differently for the Angels this year. After Staggering $7.1 Billion Revelation [https://www.essentiallysports.com/mlb-baseball-news-give-ohtani-that-eighteen-percent-new-york-yankees-fans-go-after-top-brass-after-staggering-seven-billion-revelation/] However, the two-way phenom is set on what he wants, and that is a championship trophy with the Angels. About the team’s future, Shohei said, “I don’t think it really changes anything as far as free agency is concerned.” Soon after, he added, “but I definitely want to win a ring with the Angels.… Whether I played in the Classic or not, my approach to the season is not going to change.’’ The team winning a world series is not an affair that can be done with only one player being ready. Although, his teammate Mike Trout is also pumped up from the WBC energy, even if Team USA couldn’t take the win home. WHAT TEAMS HAVE THE ABILITY TO AFFORD THE ICONIC PHENOM OHTANI? Which teams will land up in the race to bring Ohtani into their team will be revealed only when he enters free agency. But that does not stop people from making their own hypotheses. Not long ago, MLB legend Alex ‘A-Rod’ Rodriguez [https://www.essentiallysports.com/tag/alex-rodriguez/] named the three teams he believe are the only ones who could afford Shohei Ohtani in their team. And those three teams are the New York Yankees, the LA Dodgers, and the New York Mets because of the one and only Steve Cohen. Watch this Story: Ranking every winner of the prestigious World Baseball Classic [https://www.essentiallysports.com/stories/mlb-news-ranking-every-winner-of-the-prestigious-world-baseball-classic/] By the way, where do you think Ohtani will end up if or when he enters free agency? Let us know in the comments below! 

2023 World Baseball Classic winner Shohei Ohtani recently made his priorities
clear before entering free agency post upcoming regular season.

Rakshita Madan is an MLB author at EssentiallySports. She is an engineering
graduate and is currently pursuing her MBA from NMIMS, Mumbai. Rakshita has
experience in writing for more than four years now, with one of her writings
even getting published in an anthology. She is an avid reader and loves to
explore as many books as possible in different genres. Currently, she's closely
following baseball star Alex Rodriguez and his works, given her newfound passion
for the sport. Apart from reading and writing, she has her mind set on exploring
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“I Definitely Want to Win a Ring” – World Baseball Classic Champion Shohei
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2023 World Baseball Classic winner Shohei Ohtani recently made his priorities clear before entering free agency post upcoming regular season.

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“But I Definitely Want to Win a Ring” - World Baseball Classic Champion Two Way Phenom Shohei Ohtani Makes His Priority Clear Before Entering Free Agency

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Alex 'A-Rod' Rodriguez

Alex Rodriguez: Net Worth 2023, Relationships, and Investments Alex Rodriguez Net Worth 2023 As of 2023, Alex Rodriguez&#8217;s reported net worth is around $350 million. By the time A-Rod retired from the park, he accumulated almost $475 million in salary and bonuses, and another $100 to $200 million in brand endorsements. After retirement, he dove into the world of business through A-Rod Corp, an enterprise he began in his teenage years. Thanks to his multiple investments under the umbrella of his investment company, the former New York Yankees slugger&#8217;s estimated salary is around $33 million per annum. While his baseball career may be what brought him into the spotlight, it is surely his affable personality that is keeping him there. Alex Rodriguez’s Early Life and Family Alex Rodriguez was born to Victor Rodriguez and Lourdes Navarro on July 27, 1975, in New York City, United States. A-Rod&#8217;s father was a Dominican-American, while his mother was a Puerto Rican. Victor ran a shoe store in Manhattan when Alex was born. Lourdes, on the other hand, was a secretary until she had to start working multiple jobs. He was raised in the Washington Heights neighborhood of Manhattan before his family moved to Miami after their shoe business did not survive in NYC. However, when young Rodriguez was only nine years old, his father abandoned his family and moved back to New York. Alex Rodriguez was the youngest of two half-siblings from his mother&#8217;s first marriage, Joe Dunand, and Susy Dunand. A-Rod studied at Everglades Elementary School in Florida, where a chance meeting with a coach set him up as the catcher on the school team. In addition to that, A-Rod went to Westminster Christian School and Christopher Columbus High School. BOSTON &#8211; SEPTEMBER 28: Alex Rodriguez #13 of the New York Yankees smiles between innings against the Boston Red Sox at Fenway Park September 28, 2008 in Boston, Massachusetts. (Photo by Jim Rogash/Getty Images) When Victor Rodriguez abandoned 9-year-old A-Rod and his family, A-Rod&#8217;s mother, Lourdes Rodriguez, stepped into the role of both parents. She worked multiple jobs during the day to feed her family and raised the future baseball star right through his school days and through to college. Coordinated by Alex Rodriguez&#8217;s ex-wife Cynthia Scurtis, the future Yankees superstar reconnected with his father for the first time on Father&#8217;s Day in 2000 at Hubert H. Humphrey Metrodome in Minnesota. A-Rod described that day by saying, as &#8220;maybe the most important four days of my life.&#8221; Alex Rodriguez: Baseball career Alex went from strength to strength after getting drafted first by the Mariners in the 1993 draft. He made his MLB debut as a starting shortstop with the Seattle Mariners on July 8, 1994. A-Rod was only the third player in the past century to make their debut at the tender age of 18 years old, and the first such player in a decade. He picked up friends in the dugout all along. Ken Griffey Jr., one of the most famous pieces of the puzzle in Seattle, reportedly even asked for Rodriguez to have the locker next to his. Rodriguez then set out for new pastures in his free agency in 2000. In a record contract for the league at the time, the Texas Rangers signed the shortstop to a 10-year, $252 million deal in December 2000. With the Texas Rangers, in 2003, Alex Rodriguez won his first American League MVP Award. For the most storied part of his career, A-Rod arrived in New York after the end of the 2003 season. Not one to set the bar for himself, Rodriguez set out to shatter his own record in his move to the New York Yankees as he signed another 10-year $275 million deal with the New York Yankees in 2004. In a trade that put the player alongside his high school friend and fellow emergent shortstop, Derek Jeter, Rodriguez flourished in New York. NEW YORK &#8211; JULY 15: American League All-Star Alex Rodriguez #13 of the New York Yankees reacts after a play in the first inning of the 79th MLB All-Star Game at Yankee Stadium on July 15, 2008 in the Bronx borough of New York City. (Photo by Nick Laham/Getty Images) Following the 2007 season, A-Rod opted out of his ten-year New York Yankees contract and entered free agency again. The controversy arose because many fans and members of the media felt that Rodriguez&#8217;s decision to opt out was selfish and showed a lack of loyalty to the Pinstripes. This sparked debates and discussions about the role of contracts and opt-out clauses in professional sports and the ethical implications of using them. Rodriguez eventually re-signed with the Yankees for 10 years and $275 million, the largest contract in MLB history at the time. After spending 12 seasons with the Yankees filled with achievements and controversy, with four homers short of 700, Alex Rodriguez announced his MLB retirement in 2016 when his contract ended. Alex Rodriguez’s Media Career Upon retiring from his playing career, Rodriguez made a transition into the media world, occupying various roles such as a commentator for Fox Sports 1, a guest judge on the popular show &#8220;Shark Tank,&#8221; and a contributor to ABC News.  OAKLAND, CALIFORNIA &#8211; AUGUST 29: Broadcaster and former MLB player Alex Rodriguez looks on from the field before the game between the Oakland Athletics and the New York Yankees at RingCentral Coliseum on August 29, 2021 in Oakland, California. (Photo by Lachlan Cunningham/Getty Images) In 2018, he joined the broadcast team for ESPN&#8217;s &#8220;Sunday Night Baseball.&#8221; Furthermore, in 2017, he was announced as the host of CNBC&#8217;s &#8220;Back In The Game,&#8221; where he assists former athletes in making a resurgence in their personal lives. The first episode of the show premiered in March 2018 on CNBC. Most recently, A-Rod called the National League postseason alongside the likes of David Ortiz and Frank Thomas with Fox Sports. Alex Rodriguez’s Business and A-Rod Corp   A-Rod&#8217;s business ambition stemmed from his father&#8217;s entrepreneurial mind. The Yankees’ baseman envisioned the need to invest his money in the right places from day one. As a result, in his early MLB days, in 1996, A-Rod founded A-Rod Corp as a holding company. Today, his business empire stems from the success of A-Rod Corp. The A-Rod Corp focuses on a variety of business ventures, including real estate, construction, high-end fitness centers, and automotive dealerships. In 2014, Group 1 Automotive, a Houston-based dealership group, announced that they had acquired Alex Rodriguez Mercedes-Benz in League City and changed its name to Mercedes-Benz of Clear Lake. When talking about his real estate investments, Alex Rodriguez founded Newport Property Construction in 2008. In 2012, he also founded Monument Capital Management, which has acquired over $700 million of real estate assets as of 2019 and owns more than 15,000 apartments in 13 states. Alex Rodriguez&#8217;s company has made several investments over the years in various industries, including technology, fitness, and beverage. NRG eSports, TruFusion, Dirty Lemon, Petros Pace Finance, Hims, Hers, etc are a few companies where A-Rod has made significant investments. NEW YORK &#8211; DECEMBER 31: Baseball player Alex Rodriguez during NBC&#8217;s New Year&#8217;s Eve 2008 with Carson Daly in Times Square on December 31, 2007 in New York City. (Photo by Steven Henry/Getty Images) In 2021, Alex Rodriguez and Jennifer Lopez made a bid for the MLB franchise, New York Mets. Despite their efforts, the ex-couple lost the bid to another group led by Steven Cohen, who purchased the New York Mets for almost $2.5 billion. In May 2021, Alex Rodriguez also announced a partnership with telehealth company Hims &amp; Hers to create a makeup product for men. Alex Rodriguez’s Timberwolves Deal Along with ex-Walmart CEO Marc Lore, Alex Rodriguez owns a 20% stake in the Minnesota Timberwolves. While it was supposed to be an equal split between A-Rod and Lore, Alex Rodriguez failed to come up with funds for a 10% stake. As a result, A-Rod owns 7%, while Lore owns 13%. They signed the deal to buy the Minnesota Timberwolves for $1.5 billion. Their first downpayment was made in July 2021 for $250 million. Jennifer Lopez perpetually stood as a safety net when A-Rod conducted meetings with investors. Her charming presence made it easier for A-Rod to crack deals. As a result, following their breakup, the former Yankees champion may lose credibility, which in turn could affect his future investments with the Timberwolves. Alex Rodriguez’s Awards and Honors 14× All-Star (1996–1998, 2000–2008, 2010, 2011) World Series champion (2009) 3× AL MVP (2003, 2005, 2007) 2× Gold Glove Award (2002, 2003) 10× Silver Slugger Award (1996, 1998–2003, 2005, 2007, 2008) 4× AL Hank Aaron Award (2001–2003, 2007) MLB batting champion (1996) 5× AL home run leader (2001–2003, 2005, 2007) 2× MLB RBI leader (2002, 2007) Alex Rodriguez was part of a broadcast recognized for its excellence, as the MLB studio show on FOX Sports won back-to-back Sports Emmy Awards for Outstanding Studio Show during its coverage of the 2016 and 2017 Postseason. Rodriguez himself was also recognized for his abilities as a sports analyst, as he received a nomination for an Emmy in the category of Outstanding Sports Personality, Studio, and Sports Event Analyst in 2019.    Alex Rodriguez’s Relationships timeline    Cynthia Scurtis (2002 &#8211; 2008) Madonna (2008) Bethenny Frankel (2009) Kate Hudson (2009) Cameron Diaz (2010 &#8211; 2011) Torrie Wilson (2011 &#8211; 2015) Anne Wojcicki (2016 &#8211; 2017) Jennifer Lopez (2017 &#8211; 2021) Kathryne Padgett (2022) Alex Rodriguez’s ex-wife, Cynthia Scurtis In 2002, Alex Rodriguez and psychology graduate Cynthia Scurtis married after meeting for the first time in a Miami gym. Scurtis worked as a high school psychology teacher in Miami around the time that Rodriguez was gearing to make his mark in the Major Leagues, and the two hit it off there. The two began dating and eventually married in November 2002. A-Rod and Cynthia&#8217;s first child, Natasha Alexander, was born in 2004. Four years later, amidst divorce conversations, A-Rod&#8217;s second daughter, Ella Alexander, was born. In 2008, the pair filed for divorce, with Scurtis citing &#8217;emotional abandonment&#8217; and &#8216;marital misconduct&#8217; as reasons for their separation. A major reason behind the end of the couple’s marriage was his alleged infidelity with pop sensation Madonna, which became a bone of contention between the pair. Today, long years after their hostile divorce, the couple has reconciled for their children and has proven to be on good terms. Alex Rodriguez&#8217;s relationship with Jennifer Lopez In May 2005, Jennifer Lopez, who hails from the Bronx, went to a New York Yankees game against the New York Mets at Shea Stadium with her then-husband Marc Anthony. A photograph was taken of her and Alex Rodriguez shaking hands. Almost 12 years after, in March 2017, rumors of their relationship were confirmed. The couple officially announced the start of their relationship in April 2017. Correspondingly, on May 1, 2017, Jennifer Lopez and Rodriguez made their first public appearance through a red carpet debut at the Met Gala. NEW YORK, NY &#8211; AUGUST 20: Jennifer Lopez and Alex Rodriguez attend the 2018 MTV Video Music Awards at Radio City Music Hall on August 20, 2018 in New York City. (Photo by Axelle/Bauer-Griffin/FilmMagic) In little to no time, the couple met each other&#8217;s family and went on a vacation to Paris in June 2017. By October, conversations about the couple moving in together began. Two years after their relationship started, the couple announced their engagement in March 2019 through an Instagram post. However, the journey to actually getting married wasn&#8217;t so easy for the J-Rod couple. PALM SPRINGS, CALIFORNIA &#8211; JANUARY 02: (L-R) Jennifer Lopez and Alex Rodriguez attend the 31st Annual Palm Springs International Film Festival Film Awards Gala at Palm Springs Convention Center on January 02, 2020 in Palm Springs, California. (Photo by Frazer Harrison/Getty Images for Palm Springs International Film Festival) Due to the pandemic, the couple’s wedding was postponed twice. Finally, the couple succumbed to trust issues and announced the end of their engagement in April 2021.  Who is Alex Rodriguez currently dating? Since October 2022, Alex Rodriguez has been in a relationship with fitness coach Jaclyn Cordeiro. She is a fitness model, expert, and coach who also writes. MIAMI, FL &#8211; DECEMBER 14: Jac Cordeiro and Alex Rodriguez attend the Boys &amp; Girls Clubs of Miami-Dade Toy Giveaway and Holiday Party on December 14th, 2022 in Miami, Florida. (Photo by Manny Hernandez/Getty Images) Rumors of the couple’s relationship first started when MLB insider Hector Gomez uploaded an image of David Ortiz, Alex Rodriguez, and “his girlfriend,” during the MLB postseason. Alex Rodriguez’s Children Alex Rodriguez has two daughters with his former wife Cynthia Scurtis. Their first daughter, Natasha Alexander, was born on November 18, 2004, and their second daughter, Ella Alexander, was born on April 21, 2008, in Miami, Florida. Alex Rodriguez-Derek Jeter Friendship Baseball legends Derek Jeter and Alex Rodriguez started their careers as the best of friends. However, as the years went by, their relationship took a few unexpected detours. NEW YORK &#8211; OCTOBER 20: (L-R) Derek Jeter #2 and Alex Rodriguez #13 of the New York Yankees walk back to the dugout at the end of the top of the fourth inning against the Texas Rangers in Game Five of the ALCS during the 2010 MLB Playoffs at Yankee Stadium on October 20, 2010 in the Bronx borough of New York City. (Photo by Jim McIsaac/Getty Images) The first time A-Rod and Jeter met was in 1993 at a college baseball game between the University of Miami and the University of Michigan. Rodriguez made his MLB debut in 1994, playing his first game for the Seattle Mariners, while Jeter had already been playing in the minor leagues since 1992. Derek Jeter and Alex Rodriguez were known for their close friendship long before they became teammates in 2004. In fact, their bond was so strong that players from both the Yankees and Mariners often teased them about it. NEW YORK, NY &#8211; OCTOBER 13: (L-R) Derek Jeter #2 and Alex Rodriguez #13 of the New York Yankees talk in the field against the Detroit Tigers during Game One of the American League Championship Series at Yankee Stadium on October 13, 2012 in the Bronx borough of New York City, New York. (Photo by Bruce Bennett/Getty Images) The beginning of the end of the friendship between Jeter and Rodriguez started to show in late 2000. While Rodriguez signed a $252 million contract with the Texas Rangers, which was the largest in sports history, Jeter signed a $189 million deal to stay in the Bronx. This should have been a happy occasion for both of them, but things took a turn for the worse when A-Rod treated a question about who could potentially break this contract with arrogance. In April 2001, Jeter reportedly had a relationship with Joy Enriquez, who was previously asked by A-Rod to accompany him to the All-Star Game. After Rodriguez introduced Enriquez to Jeter, the two began dating for a brief period. In 2004, A-Rod made his way to New York to join the Yankees, becoming teammates with Jeter after a decade-long friendship and recently fostering a feud. The Yankees&#8217; General Manager, Brian Cashman, reported that Jeter was pleased with Rodriguez&#8217;s decision to switch positions to third base, allowing Jeter to continue playing shortstop. When A-Rod’s name came up in connection to the steroid scandal, Jeter offered a public show of support for his friend. The then-Yankees captain told reporters to give his teammate a chance to respond before passing judgment and expressed his frustration with the widespread belief that everyone in the league was using steroids, which he denied. Despite their initial close relationship and all the twists and turns their friendship took, Jeter and Rodriguez are simply acquaintances today. Overall, the two baseball legends have put their past behind them and moved on, focusing on their post-baseball careers and personal lives.  Full Name Alexander Emmanuel Rodriguez   Net Worth  $350 million (2023)  Salary $33 million (2023)   Source of Income A-Rod Corp, Timberwolves, Sportscasting  Birth date  July 27, 1975  Birth Place  Manhattan, New York City, U.S.   Nationality American  Height  6 ft. 3 in.  Weight 230 lbs   Nickname A-Rod  Parent Victor Rodriguez, Lourdes Rodriguez   Siblings Joe Dunand and Susy Dunand  Marital Status Unmarried   Children Two  New Girlfriend Jaclyn Cordeiro   Ethnicity  Dominican-American   Alex Rodriguez&#8217;s social media handles: Instagram, Twitter, Facebook

Alex 'A-Rod' Rodriguez Archives

Alex 'A-Rod' Rodriguez Archives - EssentiallySports

<h2 style="color: #252525;text-align: center">Shohei Ohtani: Net Worth 2024, MLB Career, Relationships, and More</h2>
<h2 style="color: #252525;text-align: center">What is the net worth of Los Angeles Dodgers' star Shohei Ohtani?</h2>
As described by the media and his sponsors, Shohei Ohtani is a once-in-a-lifetime talent who recently inked a history-breaking $700 million deal with the Los Angeles Dodgers. According to various sources, Shohei Ohtani's net worth was approximately $50 million in 2023, prior to landing a deal with the Dodgers.Â 


[caption id="attachment_2541444" align="aligncenter" width="8001"]<img class="size-full wp-image-2541444" src="https://image-cdn.essentiallysports.com/wp-content/uploads/2023-12-22T010301Z_1643876178_MT1USATODAY22156122_RTRMADP_3_NFL-NEW-ORLEANS-SAINTS-AT-LOS-ANGELES-RAMS.jpg" alt="" width="8001" height="5334" /> Dec 21, 2023; Inglewood, California, USA; Los Angeles Dodgers player Shohei Ohtani attends the game between the Los Angeles Rams and the New Orleans Saints at SoFi Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports[/caption]
While the specifics of the contract clauses are kept confidential, industry experts speculate that Ohtani stands to potentially earn approximately $105 million annually in 2024. This estimated sum combines his salary from the Dodgers and endorsement deals. With Ohtani being a generational talent, his parents deserve a special mention.

<h2 style="color: #252525;text-align: center">Who are his parents? All you need to know about his life and family</h2>
On July 5th, 1994, the baseball unicorn-to-be was born to Toru and Kayoko Ohtani in Oshu, Japan. For the unversed, Sho-time hails from a family of athletes. On the one hand, his father, Toru, earned a livelihood by working in a local automobile manufacturing plant in the same country, and he was an avid baseball player in the Japanese Industrial League. Recognizing young Shohei's natural talent for the game, Toru understood the importance of wholeheartedly dedicating himself to coaching his son.
<img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-2571375" src="https://image-cdn.essentiallysports.com/wp-content/uploads/Ohtani-Parents.png" alt="" width="1132" height="822" />
On the other hand, Shoheiâ€™s mother was in a different league altogether. In her high school days, Kayoko actively played badminton, which led her school authorities to keep her reserved for the local games. 
In a brief span, her exceptional skills on the court propelled her to the national level. Nevertheless, she opted to retire from sports in her late twenties and prioritized her family.
Ryuta Ohtani, the older brother of Shohei, initially pursued a career as an amateur baseball player and later transitioned into coaching for a corporate baseball team. Meanwhile, their sister, Yuka, engaged in volleyball during her teenage years before embarking on a career in the medical field. It is safe to say that sports run in the blood of the Ohtanis.

<h2 style="color: #252525;text-align: center">A Star on the Diamond: A Look at Shohei Ohtaniâ€™s Baseball Career</h2>
After being trained by his father, the now-best baseball player in the world", he attended Hanamaki Higashi High School, pitching for the school team. At just 18, Ohtani showed his incredible pitching ability by tossing a near-100-mph fastball.
Although he wished to join the major leagues right after high school, Ohtani joined the Japanese team Hokkaido Nippon-Ham Fighters in 2013. It was here that Ohtani honed his skills as a hitter and a pitcher to become one of the hottest prospects in baseball. He recorded some of the best statistics of any Japanese player, ranging from strikeouts to home runs in the sport's history.


[caption id="attachment_1735240" align="aligncenter" width="1920"]<img class="size-full wp-image-1735240" src="https://image-cdn.essentiallysports.com/wp-content/uploads/2023-05-10T230436Z_1529850878_MT1USATODAY20637185_RTRMADP_3_MLB-HOUSTON-ASTROS-AT-LOS-ANGELES-ANGELS.jpg" alt="Shohei Ohtani" width="1920" height="1280" /> May 10, 2023; Anaheim, California, USA; Los Angeles Angels designated hitter Shohei Ohtani (17) celebrates with the kabuto helmet after hitting a two run home run against the Houston Astros during the ninth inning at Angel Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports[/caption]
Amidst interest from many MLB teams, Ohtani signed with the Los Angeles Angels in December 2017. He played his first MLB game against the Oakland Athletics on March 29, 2018. During this game, he played as a designated hitter, hitting a single on his first at-bat. Two days later, he made his pitching debut against the same opponents.
He won the American League Rookie of the Year in 2018, marking his potential for the rest of the MLB. However, he suffered a bipartite patella injury in 2019, which cut short his second MLB season. Prior to this, the Japanese star underwent Tommy John surgery, which put his pitching career in doubt.
In 2020, Ohtani suffered a flexor strain on his elbow, which once again endangered his pitching capability. However, the then-27-year-old produced one of his finest MLB seasons in 2021, both as a pitcher and a hitter. After delivering one of the best and most remarkable seasons in 2022, Ohtani asserted, â€œMy pitching numbers are better. Iâ€™m just playing with more confidence after experiencing last year.â€


[caption id="attachment_781400" align="aligncenter" width="1392"]<img class="size-full wp-image-781400" src="https://image-cdn.essentiallysports.com/wp-content/uploads/2021-09-26T014826Z_1535639680_MT1USATODAY16829036_RTRMADP_3_MLB-SEATTLE-MARINERS-AT-LOS-ANGELES-ANGELS.jpg" alt="Shohei Ohtani At Yankee Stadium" width="1392" height="1920" /> Sep 25, 2021; Anaheim, California, USA; Los Angeles Angels designated hitter Shohei Ohtani (17) triples against the Seattle Mariners in the first inning at Angel Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Robert Hanashiro-USA TODAY Sports[/caption]
In his sixth Major League season with the Angels, the 29-year-old has garnered various accolades in both diamond and mound. From ranking in the Top Four in the American League in home runs and recording a second career 40+ HR season as a hitter to leading the AL to pitching his first career complete game and first shutout as a pitcher to record 10+ pitching wins and 30+ HR for a second consecutive season. In every aspect, the baseball season of 2023 will go down in history as the Year of Ohtani. Why? Owing to his â€œrecord-settingâ€ deal.

<h2 style="color: #252525;text-align: center">Largest contract in the MLB history: Shohei Ohtaniâ€™s contract in detail</h2>
On December 9, 2023, shortly after the conclusion of the MLB Winter Meetings, Shohei Ohtani concluded his initial venture into free agency by inking a 10-year, $700 million deal with the Los Angeles Dodgers. Although the â€œrichest in North American sports history," this deal had a catch: $68 million out of the $70 million annually are deferrals. This clearly means Ohtani is set to earn only $2 million a year from 2024 to 2033. The deferred payments, which is $68 million a year, will be distributed without interest from 2034 to 2043.


[caption id="attachment_2463072" align="aligncenter" width="2339"]<img class="size-full wp-image-2463072" src="https://image-cdn.essentiallysports.com/wp-content/uploads/2023-12-14T233308Z_1005565715_UP1EJCE1TF7I2_RTRMADP_3_BASEBALL-MLB-OHTANI-NEWSER.jpg" alt="Shohei Ohtani" width="2339" height="1614" /> Baseball - Shohei Ohtani Press Conference - Centerfield Plaza, Dodger Stadium, Los Angeles, California, United States - December 14, 2023 Shohei Ohtani during the press conference REUTERS/Aude Guerrucci[/caption]
By the time Ohtani starts receiving his deferrals, a contract with the Dodgers will no longer bind him. According to experts, the two-way phenomenon is poised to potentially save between $90 and $100 million in state taxes, mainly because he is a resident outside of California after the conclusion of his â€œpretty interestingâ€ structured contract on paper.

<h2 style="color: #252525;text-align: center">A successful journey: All his achievements so far</h2>
From staying local with Nippon Professional Baseball to becoming the unicorn in the Major League lights, Shohei Ohtaniâ€™s baseball journey is a testament to grit, talent, and wanderlust. Here are all his achievements so far:
International

<ul style="color: #252525">
 	<li style="font-weight: 400;color: #252525">World Baseball Classic MVP (2023)</li>
 	<li style="font-weight: 400;color: #252525">All-World Baseball Classic Team (2023)</li>
</ul>
MLB

<ul style="color: #252525">
 	<li style="font-weight: 400;color: #252525">AL Hank Aaron Award (2023)</li>
 	<li style="font-weight: 400;color: #252525">AL home run leader (2023)</li>
 	<li style="font-weight: 400;color: #252525">3Ã— All-Star (2021â€“2023)</li>
 	<li style="font-weight: 400;color: #252525">2Ã— AL MVP (2021, 2023)</li>
 	<li style="font-weight: 400;color: #252525">4Ã— All-MLB First Team (2021-2023Â²)</li>
 	<li style="font-weight: 400;color: #252525">2Ã— All-MLB Second Team (2021, 2022)</li>
 	<li style="font-weight: 400;color: #252525">2Ã— Silver Slugger Award (2021, 2023)</li>
 	<li style="font-weight: 400;color: #252525">3Ã— Edgar MartÃ­nez Award (2021â€“2023)</li>
 	<li style="font-weight: 400;color: #252525">2Ã— AP Athlete of the Year (2021, 2023)</li>
 	<li>Commissioner's Historic Achievement Award (2021)</li>
 	<li>AL triples leader (2021)</li>
 	<li>AL Rookie of the Year (2018)</li>
</ul>
NPB

<ul style="color: #252525">
 	<li style="font-weight: 400;color: #252525">Japan Series champion (2016)</li>
 	<li style="font-weight: 400;color: #252525">Pacific League MVP (2016)</li>
 	<li style="font-weight: 400;color: #252525">Designated Hitter Best Nine (2016)</li>
 	<li>2Ã— Japan Professional Sports Grand Prize (2016, 2018)</li>
 	<li>2Ã— Pacific League Pitcher Best Nine (2015â€“2016)</li>
 	<li style="font-weight: 400;color: #252525">Pacific League ERA leader (2015)</li>
 	<li style="font-weight: 400;color: #252525">Pacific League Battery Award, with Shota Ono (2015)</li>
 	<li style="font-weight: 400;color: #252525">WBSC Player of the Year (2015)</li>
 	<li>5Ã— NPB All-Star (2013â€“2017)</li>
</ul>
<h2 style="color: #252525;text-align: center">Is he married? The truth behind his relationship with Kamalani Dung</h2>
â€œOhtani likes to keep his cards close to his chest." Didnâ€™t we already notice this most recently while he was adamant about keeping his free agency moves private? Surprisingly, this applies to not only his professional life but also his personal life. 
Ohtani, who is officially and publicly married to Mamiko Tanaka since the late February of this year, has been a victim of marriage rumors. Although not much is known about Ohtani's past relationships or the woman in his contact, Kamalani Dung, a Hawaiian woman who is said to be a professional softball player, was once strongly linked to the Japanese man.
<img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-1585948" src="https://image-cdn.essentiallysports.com/wp-content/uploads/Adobe_Express_20220513_2049360-1024x576-1.jpg" alt="" width="1024" height="576" />
Having represented Puerto Rico in the sport as a right-handed pitcher, Dung is called a "YouTube Pitcher." As the name suggests, Kamalani acquired her softball throwing skills through YouTube videos and tutorials. Even after this, she managed to earn a gold medal at the 2018 Central American and Caribbean Games in Barranquilla, Colombia.
Incidentally, in the same year, the now-26-year-old posted a picture with Ohtani on her Instagram account. As soon as the post went viral, the baseball fandom was quick to conclude: â€˜Ohtani dating Dungâ€™. However, immediately after, Dung cleared the air, stating that she was just a massive fan of Shohei.

<table style="color: #252525;width: 91.9149%">
<tbody style="color: #252525">
<tr style="color: #252525">
<td style="color: #252525;width: 25.2418%;text-align: left">
Age
</td>
<td style="color: #252525;width: 65.3597%;text-align: left">
29
</td>
</tr>
<tr style="color: #252525">
<td style="color: #252525;width: 25.2418%;text-align: left">
Nationality
</td>
<td style="color: #252525;width: 65.3597%;text-align: left">
Japanese
</td>
</tr>
<tr style="color: #252525">
<td style="color: #252525;width: 25.2418%;text-align: left">
Team
</td>
<td style="color: #252525;width: 65.3597%;text-align: left">
Los Angeles Dodgers
</td>
</tr>
<tr style="color: #252525">
<td style="color: #252525;width: 25.2418%;text-align: left">
Net Worth
</td>
<td style="color: #252525;width: 65.3597%;text-align: left">
$50million
</td>
</tr>
<tr style="color: #252525">
<td style="color: #252525;width: 25.2418%;text-align: left">
Endorsements
</td>
<td style="color: #252525;width: 65.3597%;text-align: left">Hugo Boss, Topps, Fanatics, Oakley, ASICS, Seiko Watch, JAL Airlines, Descente, New BalanceÂ </td>
</tr>
<tr style="color: #252525">
<td style="color: #252525;width: 25.2418%">
Height
</td>
<td style="color: #252525;width: 65.3597%">
1.93M
</td>
</tr>
<tr style="color: #252525">
<td style="color: #252525;width: 25.2418%">
Weight
</td>
<td style="color: #252525;width: 65.3597%">
94kg
</td>
</tr>
<tr style="color: #252525">
<td style="color: #252525;width: 25.2418%">
Marital Status
</td>
<td style="color: #252525;width: 65.3597%">
Single
</td>
</tr>
<tr style="color: #252525">
<td style="color: #252525;width: 25.2418%">
ParentsÂ 
</td>
<td style="color: #252525;width: 65.3597%">
Kayoko Ohtani and Toru Ohtani
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>

Shohei Ohtani

Shohei Ohtani: Net Worth 2024, MLB Career, Relationships, and More What is the net worth of Los Angeles Dodgers&#8217; star Shohei Ohtani? As described by the media and his sponsors, Shohei Ohtani is a once-in-a-lifetime talent who recently inked a history-breaking $700 million deal with the Los Angeles Dodgers. According to various sources, Shohei Ohtani&#8217;s net worth was approximately $50 million in 2023, prior to landing a deal with the Dodgers.Â  Dec 21, 2023; Inglewood, California, USA; Los Angeles Dodgers player Shohei Ohtani attends the game between the Los Angeles Rams and the New Orleans Saints at SoFi Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports While the specifics of the contract clauses are kept confidential, industry experts speculate that Ohtani stands to potentially earn approximately $105 million annually in 2024. This estimated sum combines his salary from the Dodgers and endorsement deals. With Ohtani being a generational talent, his parents deserve a special mention. Who are his parents? All you need to know about his life and family On July 5th, 1994, the baseball unicorn-to-be was born to Toru and Kayoko Ohtani in Oshu, Japan. For the unversed, Sho-time hails from a family of athletes. On the one hand, his father, Toru, earned a livelihood by working in a local automobile manufacturing plant in the same country, and he was an avid baseball player in the Japanese Industrial League. Recognizing young Shohei&#8217;s natural talent for the game, Toru understood the importance of wholeheartedly dedicating himself to coaching his son. On the other hand, Shoheiâ€™s mother was in a different league altogether. In her high school days, Kayoko actively played badminton, which led her school authorities to keep her reserved for the local games. In a brief span, her exceptional skills on the court propelled her to the national level. Nevertheless, she opted to retire from sports in her late twenties and prioritized her family. Ryuta Ohtani, the older brother of Shohei, initially pursued a career as an amateur baseball player and later transitioned into coaching for a corporate baseball team. Meanwhile, their sister, Yuka, engaged in volleyball during her teenage years before embarking on a career in the medical field. It is safe to say that sports run in the blood of the Ohtanis. A Star on the Diamond: A Look at Shohei Ohtaniâ€™s Baseball Career After being trained by his father, the now-best baseball player in the world&#8221;, he attended Hanamaki Higashi High School, pitching for the school team. At just 18, Ohtani showed his incredible pitching ability by tossing a near-100-mph fastball. Although he wished to join the major leagues right after high school, Ohtani joined the Japanese team Hokkaido Nippon-Ham Fighters in 2013. It was here that Ohtani honed his skills as a hitter and a pitcher to become one of the hottest prospects in baseball. He recorded some of the best statistics of any Japanese player, ranging from strikeouts to home runs in the sport&#8217;s history. May 10, 2023; Anaheim, California, USA; Los Angeles Angels designated hitter Shohei Ohtani (17) celebrates with the kabuto helmet after hitting a two run home run against the Houston Astros during the ninth inning at Angel Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports Amidst interest from many MLB teams, Ohtani signed with the Los Angeles Angels in December 2017. He played his first MLB game against the Oakland Athletics on March 29, 2018. During this game, he played as a designated hitter, hitting a single on his first at-bat. Two days later, he made his pitching debut against the same opponents. He won the American League Rookie of the Year in 2018, marking his potential for the rest of the MLB. However, he suffered a bipartite patella injury in 2019, which cut short his second MLB season. Prior to this, the Japanese star underwent Tommy John surgery, which put his pitching career in doubt. In 2020, Ohtani suffered a flexor strain on his elbow, which once again endangered his pitching capability. However, the then-27-year-old produced one of his finest MLB seasons in 2021, both as a pitcher and a hitter. After delivering one of the best and most remarkable seasons in 2022, Ohtani asserted, â€œMy pitching numbers are better. Iâ€™m just playing with more confidence after experiencing last year.â€ Sep 25, 2021; Anaheim, California, USA; Los Angeles Angels designated hitter Shohei Ohtani (17) triples against the Seattle Mariners in the first inning at Angel Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Robert Hanashiro-USA TODAY Sports In his sixth Major League season with the Angels, the 29-year-old has garnered various accolades in both diamond and mound. From ranking in the Top Four in the American League in home runs and recording a second career 40+ HR season as a hitter to leading the AL to pitching his first career complete game and first shutout as a pitcher to record 10+ pitching wins and 30+ HR for a second consecutive season. In every aspect, the baseball season of 2023 will go down in history as the Year of Ohtani. Why? Owing to his â€œrecord-settingâ€ deal. Largest contract in the MLB history: Shohei Ohtaniâ€™s contract in detail On December 9, 2023, shortly after the conclusion of the MLB Winter Meetings, Shohei Ohtani concluded his initial venture into free agency by inking a 10-year, $700 million deal with the Los Angeles Dodgers. Although the â€œrichest in North American sports history,&#8221; this deal had a catch: $68 million out of the $70 million annually are deferrals. This clearly means Ohtani is set to earn only $2 million a year from 2024 to 2033. The deferred payments, which is $68 million a year, will be distributed without interest from 2034 to 2043. Baseball &#8211; Shohei Ohtani Press Conference &#8211; Centerfield Plaza, Dodger Stadium, Los Angeles, California, United States &#8211; December 14, 2023 Shohei Ohtani during the press conference REUTERS/Aude Guerrucci By the time Ohtani starts receiving his deferrals, a contract with the Dodgers will no longer bind him. According to experts, the two-way phenomenon is poised to potentially save between $90 and $100 million in state taxes, mainly because he is a resident outside of California after the conclusion of his â€œpretty interestingâ€ structured contract on paper. A successful journey: All his achievements so far From staying local with Nippon Professional Baseball to becoming the unicorn in the Major League lights, Shohei Ohtaniâ€™s baseball journey is a testament to grit, talent, and wanderlust. Here are all his achievements so far: International World Baseball Classic MVP (2023) All-World Baseball Classic Team (2023) MLB AL Hank Aaron Award (2023) AL home run leader (2023) 3Ã— All-Star (2021â€“2023) 2Ã— AL MVP (2021, 2023) 4Ã— All-MLB First Team (2021-2023Â²) 2Ã— All-MLB Second Team (2021, 2022) 2Ã— Silver Slugger Award (2021, 2023) 3Ã— Edgar MartÃ­nez Award (2021â€“2023) 2Ã— AP Athlete of the Year (2021, 2023) Commissioner&#8217;s Historic Achievement Award (2021) AL triples leader (2021) AL Rookie of the Year (2018) NPB Japan Series champion (2016) Pacific League MVP (2016) Designated Hitter Best Nine (2016) 2Ã— Japan Professional Sports Grand Prize (2016, 2018) 2Ã— Pacific League Pitcher Best Nine (2015â€“2016) Pacific League ERA leader (2015) Pacific League Battery Award, with Shota Ono (2015) WBSC Player of the Year (2015) 5Ã— NPB All-Star (2013â€“2017) Is he married? The truth behind his relationship with Kamalani Dung â€œOhtani likes to keep his cards close to his chest.&#8221; Didnâ€™t we already notice this most recently while he was adamant about keeping his free agency moves private? Surprisingly, this applies to not only his professional life but also his personal life. Ohtani, who is officially and publicly married to Mamiko Tanaka since the late February of this year, has been a victim of marriage rumors. Although not much is known about Ohtani&#8217;s past relationships or the woman in his contact, Kamalani Dung, a Hawaiian woman who is said to be a professional softball player, was once strongly linked to the Japanese man. Having represented Puerto Rico in the sport as a right-handed pitcher, Dung is called a &#8220;YouTube Pitcher.&#8221; As the name suggests, Kamalani acquired her softball throwing skills through YouTube videos and tutorials. Even after this, she managed to earn a gold medal at the 2018 Central American and Caribbean Games in Barranquilla, Colombia. Incidentally, in the same year, the now-26-year-old posted a picture with Ohtani on her Instagram account. As soon as the post went viral, the baseball fandom was quick to conclude: â€˜Ohtani dating Dungâ€™. However, immediately after, Dung cleared the air, stating that she was just a massive fan of Shohei.   Age  29   Nationality  Japanese   Team  Los Angeles Dodgers   Net Worth  $50million   Endorsements Hugo Boss, Topps, Fanatics, Oakley, ASICS, Seiko Watch, JAL Airlines, Descente, New BalanceÂ   Height  1.93M   Weight  94kg   Marital Status  Single   ParentsÂ   Kayoko Ohtani and Toru Ohtani

“I Definitely Want to Win a Ring” – World Baseball Classic Champion Shohei Ohtani Makes His Priority Clear Before Entering Free Agency

Will Shohei Ohtani win a ring before his free agency?

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