The future of Shohei Ohtani is undoubtedly the biggest (off-field) storyline in the baseball world.
Set to become a free-agent at the end of the season, Ohtani is assumed to be in-line for the largest contract in MLB history.
The question is who will sign him? Many assume that he will stay on the west coast, possibly joining the Los Angeles Dodgers.
However, according to a report by Hall of Fame baseball reporter Peter Gammons, there could be a surprise east coast team that has a legitimate chance to land the two-way superstar.
“N.L. Executive long familiar with Shohei Ohtani believes he is interested in Boston, partly because of his relationship with New Balance CEO Jim Davis. Bosox problem: Masataka Yoshida has to DH, Ohtani off TJ must DH, Sox $ mostly going to pitching,” Gammons tweeted.
N.L. Executive long familiar with Shonei Ohtani believes he is interested in Boston, partly because of his relationship with New Balance CEO Jim Davis.Bosox problem:Masataka Yoshida has to DH, Ohtani off TJ must DH, Sox $ mostly going to pitching.
— Peter Gammons (@pgammo) September 15, 2023
The report has caught many by surprise. The Red Sox, based on their geographical location, were not a team typically associated with Ohtani’s preferences.
Also, would his relationship with New Balance’s CEO really convince him that Boston’s the place to sign?
The Red Sox sure hope so. Although, it would take owner John Henry to stop squeezing his check book so tight.
Fellow east coast clubs such as the Yankees, Mets and Phillies will surely do their due-diligence on Ohtani – even if the chances are he’ll stay in California.
THERE'S A RUMOR GOING AROUND THAT OHTANI MIGHT GO TO THE RED SOX???pic.twitter.com/ojokJZmFXu
— marisa (@marisaonfilm) September 15, 2023
Where do you think Ohtani ends up?
Do you believe Gammons’ report that the Sox have a legit chance?