Why the Toronto Blue Jays Might Just Be the Perfect Landing Spot for Shohei Ohtani

The off-season has provided answers to many questions as of now. However, the biggest question of which team Shohei Ohtani would sign is yet to be answered. The reason is the long list of teams chasing the two-way phenom but without any solid front-runner in this race. But if everything is considered, has the world got an answer about Ohtani’s next team?

Due to the skillset and popularity, the Japanese wonder seems to be a perfect fit for every team. However, only a few can afford that, and thus the group of possible suitors is small. This makes every team in this mix a potential spot for the 2023 WBC winner. But it seems Toronto Blue Jays might have a slighter edge in this. Why so?

Toronto Blue Jays, a perfect fit for Shohei Ohtani?

Shohei Ohtani is the best player in the league as of now. This puts him in the eyes of teams looking for the best on their squad. Though the list has multiple names, the Blue Jays look in the lead spot after all factors are analyzed.

Notably, Ohtani has not made the playoffs in his MLB career and wants to change that. This puts Toronto in the mix, who has made it the ultimate battle three times in the last four seasons. Though they did not win any trophy in this period, Blue Jays showed its capability, giving enough pull for Ohtani to join and make it happen.

Moreover, the team is also unclear about the future of two star players. If they sign the Japanese star, the Blue Jays might trade them and lower the spending. Although losing Bo Bichette and Vladimir Guerrero Jr. would be big, Ohtani can compensate for that at a similar cost. Also, the team depth of the 1992 champions eases the situation.

Then comes the environment, which can comfort 2023 MVP a thousand miles from home. The reason behind this thought is family-oriented living. Thus, when all the factors are combined, the 30-year-old will get a team with a sturdy base that is a perfect fit for his future. But can the cost of retaining the core team hamper this trade?

If Not Anything Else, Money Can Be a Challenge for Toronto to Sign Ohtani

All these factors make Toronto a perfect place for Ohtani. But the problem arises if the Jays want to retain their core team. Given that the cost of hiring the two-way phenom is already high, estimated at more than $500 million, the wish to retain Guerrero Jr. and Bichette, who may cost an additional $50 million, makes it tough for the deal to go through.

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In addition, the Blue Jays are interested in Juan Soto, who can cost around $33 million for the next season, if not more. Thus, to have a squad with multiple players with contracts over $25 million will be a huge ask. If still the deal is to be made, it would require a renewed approach or some sacrifices. Will the Jays expect it to happen? Let us know your take in the comments.