Shohei Ohtani's Bold Move: Defers $680M of $700M Dodgers Contract To Boost Team's Championship Prospects

Photo: Instagram/Shohei Ohtani

In a surprising twist, Shohei Ohtani's 10-year, $700 million contract with the Dodgers will see $68 million deferred annually until 2034-2043, as reported by Fabian Ardaya of The Athletic. 

This move, proposed by Ohtani himself, aims to enhance the team's immediate competitiveness by facilitating additional signings. 

Despite the substantial delay in receiving the majority of his earnings, Ohtani's thriving off-field ventures, generating around $50 million annually, are expected to alleviate any financial strain.

Photo: Instagram/Shohei Ohtani

The Dodgers, in turn, view this deferral as a significant advantage in managing the competitive balance tax and making key acquisitions, potentially targeting pitchers like Yoshinobu Yamamoto or Tyler Glasnow.

ESPN's Jeff Passan highlights the Dodgers' gain, labeling it a "huge discount" as the impact on the competitive balance tax amounts to approximately $46 million per season. 

Ohtani's readiness to make such concessions underscores his determination to contend for World Series titles, a feat that eluded him during his tenure with the Los Angeles Angels.

With a star-studded lineup featuring Ohtani, Mookie Betts, Freddie Freeman, Max Muncy, and Will Smith, the Dodgers emerge as formidable contenders. 

However, uncertainties loom in the pitching department, especially with Ohtani sidelined in 2024 post-elbow surgery, and the looming free agency of Dodgers legend Clayton Kershaw. 

The team's ability to secure a top-notch starter like Yamamoto or Glasnow could be pivotal in their quest for championship glory, making Ohtani's contract deferral a noteworthy strategic move in the competitive landscape.

Read Next: Anthony Davis Dominates In Lakers' Triumph, Securing Inaugural NBA Cup

Source: Breacher Report 

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