Watching Shohei Ohtani do superhuman things on a nightly basis is something we’ve all become somewhat numb to, simply because it seems like he’s accomplishing something no one has ever done multiple times a week.
He’s led the Los Angeles Dodgers to within two games of a second straight World Series championship – something no team has accomplished since the New York Yankees at the turn of the century. Entering Game 5, Ohtani boasts a ridiculous .400/.591/1.133 slash line, including three home runs and a staggering seven walks to just four punchouts.
Oh, and he’s also been a key contributor for the Dodgers on the mound, as well – in case you forgot about his unicorn-like status in today’s game.
Cubs balked at deferring money – even to sign Shohei Ohtani
Before signing his 10-year deal with Los Angeles before the 2024 season, Chicago Cubs fans dreamt of the possibility of Ohtani calling Wrigley Field home for the rest of his career. And, according to a report from the New York Post, they put a competitive offer on the table: 10 years and somewhere in the $500 million range.
But their outright refusal to incorporate heavy deferrals put them at a major disadvantage. Of course, Ohtani’s eventual deal with the Dodgers drew widespread criticism over the fact that he’s paid just $2 million annually for the duration of the deal – and will receive annual payouts of $68 million once the contract concludes (2034-2043).
The fact that the Dodgers have reportedly already paid for the entirety of the contract through marketing deals and sponsorships just adds insult to injury – and should send a clear message to Tom Ricketts when it comes to ponying up for top-shelf free agents (although, admittedly, Ohtani is in a category unto himself).
Unsurprisingly, while potential salary cap and floor talks have dominated speculation ahead of next winter’s CBA showdown, clamping down on deferrals could also be a major point of discussion between owners and the MLBPA. If those are curtailed, then maybe – just maybe – the Cubs start to push their way back into the conversation on big free agents.
But, then again, maybe not.
