Dodgers Rumors: Shohei Ohtani To Prioritize Winning Over Geography in Free Agency, Says Insider
Shohei Ohtani won’t say anything publicly, but it’s very unlikely he re-signs with the Angels this offseason.
After being with the Los Angeles Angels for seven years, he wants to play for a winner. During his tenure with the Los Angeles Angels, they didn’t even reach the postseason once.
From Japan, Ohtani would like to play for a West Coast team, but he wants to win more than choosing a team because of its geography. Many baseball experts think Ohtani probably will choose the Los Angeles Dodgers to sign a contract with.
Over at The Athletic, though, former MLB GM Jim Bowden said that he’s heard Ohtani will prioritize winning over anything — even geography.
According to an industry source briefed on Ohtani’s thinking, although he prefers the West Coast, the potential to win championships will be given more weight than geography, as long as a team is willing to at least match the best offer he receives in free agency.
Via The Athletic
Ohtani probably will prioritize meeting with every organization’s management and ownership and hearing what they have to say before he makes a decision. He might choose the team with a better plan to win the World Series instead of the highest bidder.
Since Ohtani came into the league, there has been speculation the Dodgers wanted him. After he tore his UCL and will need another procedure, Ohtani likely won’t be able to pitch at the beginning of his new contract.
However, even if he can’t pitch next year, the Dodgers need a powerful DH as J.D. Martinez is headed to free agency and due for a nice pay day.
The Dodgers go to the postseason every year, and Ohtani’s offensive production might tip the Dodgers over to win a world championship more often than not. His added pitching would just be a bonus.
Photo Credit: D. Ross Cameron-USA TODAY Sports
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The problem is the Dodgers don’t know how to win championships. The fact is the Dodgers and the Angels both have the same amount of World Series championships over the past 20+ years. Yes, the Dodgers make it to the playoffs, but they are also in one of the worst divisions in baseball, this has been known for many years. Shohei will be going to the East Coast, and for sure, will stay out of nasty LA, mark my words!