Why Shohei Ohtani Signed with the Dodgers, Not the Blue Jays
The contract offers were reported to be similar, with both the Los Angeles Dodgers and the Toronto Blue Jays presenting 10-year, $700 million deals with deferred money.
Shohei Ohtani could have been a two-way superstar for the Blue Jays, but ultimately chose the Dodgers, a decision that will have significant implications for the upcoming World Series.
The Blue Jays will face the Dodgers in the World Series, starting with Game 1 on Friday night, where Ohtani will lead off as the first batter for the visitors at Rogers Centre.
- The Blue Jays had made efforts to woo Ohtani, even giving him apparel for his dog, Decoy.
- Despite similar contract offers, Ohtani chose the Dodgers, highlighting the fine margins in free agent decisions.
More than that, it's a story of how close the free agent margins can be in determining who wins and who doesn't.
A 27-year-old infielder will receive a World Series ring regardless of whether the Dodgers or Blue Jays win.
Author's summary: Ohtani signs with Dodgers over Blue Jays despite similar contract offers.