“Dodgers and Mariners finish runners-up in Ohtani recruiting battle.”

The Athletic columnist Jim Borden made a bold prediction for the 2023-2024 offseason on July 7 (KST).

He predicted that “super free agent” Shohei Ohtani (29) will not join the Los Angeles Dodgers, but will join the Texas Rangers.

The deal includes incentives, escalator clauses, and bonuses that could make him the highest-paid player in sports history.”

“The Dodgers and Mariners are the runners-up in the battle for Ohtani,” Borden said. That means Texas, the Los Angeles Dodgers, and the Seattle Mariners are battling for the last spot.

Borden didn’t estimate the total value of Ohtani’s contract, including options, but if Texas beats out the Dodgers, it’s a safe bet that there are huge guarantees and other terms that would make it a steal.

In another article later in the day, The Athletic called it a 12-team battle for Ohtani, with the Boston Red Sox, Chicago Cubs, Los Angeles Angels, Los Angeles Dodgers, New York Mets, New York Yankees, Philadelphia Phillies, San Diego Padres, San Francisco Giants, Seattle Mariners, Texas Rangers, and Toronto Blue Jays.

In fact, more teams are expected to express interest in Ohtani.

It all comes down to which team will make an offer that will knock the Dodgers out of the running, and Borden believes it will be Texas. 온라인카지노

There had been speculation in the American media that Texas would be in the running for Ohtani.

However, this is the first time that he will actually wear a Texas uniform.

The state of Texas does not charge personal income tax, which is a big draw for players.

If Texas, which won the World Series this season, were to bring Ohtani with them, it would be a declaration of intent to win a second straight World Series.

As The Athletic put it, “Ohtani would be a tremendous addition to the lineup.

He’ll hit hard behind Marcus Semien, Corey Seager, and Adolis Garcia.

As a pitcher, he could replace Max Scherzer, whose contract expires after the 2024 season.”

Texas has assembled some big names in free agency and trades in recent years, including Seager, Semien, and Scherzer, and eventually won a World Series, but they need Ohtani to be a sustainable contender. Scherzer’s $130 million contract is up next year.

Ohtani’s option doesn’t kick in until 2025, meaning he could form a one-two punch with Jacob deGrom, who is rehabbing from Tommy John surgery for the long haul.

Looking at the contracts of the main Texas players, Semien is signed through 2028, Seager through 2031, and DeGrom through 2027 (with a club option for 2028).

Ohtani is likely signed through the early 2030s. In the end, The Athletic believes Texas will build a dynasty with Ohtani.