MLB Executive Compares Dodgers Target Shohei Ohtani To Soccer Legend Lionel Messi

This is an incredible (and accurate) comparison.

Every so often, the sports world is gifted with an athlete that transcends what people believe is possible. For the longest time, baseball hadn't had one, but then two-way superstar Shohei Ohtani showed up to the big leagues.

Since arriving in the league, Ohtani has dazzled audiences with his performances, and it has helped him earn two unanimous American League MVP honors. He has pushed the limits of what was thought to be done in the game of baseball, and he continues to do so today.

It's why his free agency this offseason is the most talked-about storyline in baseball. He is unlike any free agent that we have ever seen, and he could easily command the largest contract in history.

But whichever team lands Ohtani isn't just getting a great baseball player, but rather an international superstar. His marketability is off the charts, and even without his on-field play, he pays for himself.

One MLB executive spoke to Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic, and compared Ohtani to one of the more famous athletes worldwide: Soccer legend Lionel Messi.

“Look at the example of Messi in Miami,” an AL executive said. “I think Ohtani is the same model.”

Via The Athletic

Both Ohtani and Messi draw in audiences whenever they step foot onto their respective fields. It's the awe of what they are doing that brings people in, and the hope to see something spectacular.

“It’s all about eyeballs,” an AL executive said. “And he brings eyeballs to the table.”

Via The Athletic

While he doesn't speak to the media much, Ohtani is the face of the league. He is the most talked about player and is also the best player in the game today.

Despite his recovering from a torn UCL and not being able to pitch in 2024, Ohtani is still expected to receive the largest deal in history. That alone should tell you exactly what the league thinks of his game.

No matter where he signs, the media coverage will follow him. People want to know what this guy is doing and where he is going, no matter how private he wants to be. It's part of being in the public eye, and all LA fans are hoping that the city of Los Angeles will be where he lands this offseason.