Shohei Ohtani has set a financial record to go along with his singular on-field performance, getting $700m to make a 48km (30-mile) move up Interstate 5 to the Los Angeles Dodgers.
His agent, Nez Balelo, issued a news release on Saturday announcing the 10-year contract, ending months of speculation that began even before Ohtani became a free agent on November 2.
His agent, Nez Balelo, issued a news release on Saturday announcing the 10-year contract, ending months of speculation that began even before Ohtani became a free agent on November 2.
In recent days, media and fans have tracked private plane movements and alleged sightings like detectives in attempts to discern the intentions of the two-time AL MVP with the Los Angeles Angels.
“This is a unique, historic contract for a unique, historic player,” Balelo said. “He is excited to begin this partnership, and he structured his contract to reflect a true commitment from both sides to long-term success.”
Ohtani’s total was 64 percent higher than baseball’s previous record, a $426.5m, 12-year deal for Angels outfielder Mike Trout that began in 2019.
His $70m average salary is 62 percent above the previous high of $43.3m, shared by pitchers Max Scherzer and Justin Verlander with deals they struck with the New York Mets.
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