4 Things to Know About Shohei Ohtani in Free Agency

What you need to know

The best baseball player on the planet hit free agency this offseason. Two-way phenom Shohei Ohtani will explore his options and choose the best landing spot for him.

This is a look at some facts you need to know when considering where he could land.

1. Shohei Ohtani is a Money Maker

According to Forbes, Ohtani made $35MM this year off endorsements alone. This is the most by any baseball player by a good margin. Whoever ends up signing him will be buying the opportunity to market him all around the ballpark. Per The Athletic, Ohtani has "been worth north of $70 million a year to the Angels before he even throws a pitch or swings a bat, because of all of the additional revenue they get from corporate sponsorships, stadium signage, and merchandise related to Ohtani sold at Angel Stadium".

2. Whoever Signs Him Will Be Getting a One Way Player for a Season 

Ohtani will not pitch in 2024. After undergoing a procedure on his elbow this past September (it was not disclosed whether or not it was his second Tommy John surgery), his recovery process will keep him off the mound in 2024. That being said, he will be available to hit in 2024. 

If Phillies star Bryce Harper is any indication, no one should expect a dropoff in offensive production.

3. He's Tired of Losing

Reportedly, more than anything he wants to win. The World Baseball Classic provided him with more than a taste of what playoff baseball could be for him. Without having played for a chance at the Fall Classic, Ohtani wants to land with a club that can give him that opportunity.

4. He's About to Be Record Breaker 

He will make the most money of any baseball player in history. Without a doubt, he is the most unique player in at least a century, if not ever. Hitting and pitching at an elite level means that he commands a contract that likely starts with a four. The team that signs him will need enough resources and revenue to carry a contract upwards of $60MM a year.