The Shohei Ohtani sweepstakes are creating waves in the MLB offseason, and a resolution could be near.
The two-way Japanese superstar is likely to make a decision on a team within the next week, says MLB Network’s Jon Morosi, citing a source involved in the free-agent market.
Morosi’s report aligns with a similar piece from Sportsnet’s Ben Nicholson-Smith, who noted that negotiations for the 2021 and 2023 AL MVP were nearing their conclusion. A small group of teams met with Ohtani and his representatives in Los Angeles over the weekend, according to sources familiar with the situation.
While the Giants are reportedly making a strong push to sign Ohtani, their current standing among potential suitors is uncertain, reported ESPN’s Jeff Passan.
“The San Francisco Giants have long had a fondness for Ohtani, though where they stand in these sweepstakes is unknown,” Passan wrote.
San Francisco’s ambiguous position in the race for Ohtani might make fans anxious but could signal a positive pursuit by Farhan Zaidi and the Giants front office.
Last month, Passan reported that Ohtani’s camp is keen on keeping negotiations with teams confidential. Any potential leaks from prospective visits will be held against the team in question.
“If there is one thing to know about Shohei Ohtani’s free agency, it’s that you are unlikely to know much about it until he signs somewhere,” Passan wrote. “If visits between Ohtani and a team are reported publicly, it will be held against the team, so the circles will be tiny and tight.”
Ohtani had a remarkable 2023 MLB season, winning the MVP title while posting impressive stats as a pitcher and hitter. He also underwent surgery on his elbow in September and is expected to make a full recovery.
The Giants are eager to add Ohtani to their roster, and his potential to become a star in the Bay Area makes him the most coveted offseason asset they have ever pursued.
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