Two-way phenom Shohei Ohtani is without a doubt the biggest free-agent available on the market.
The usual big-market characters are said to be interested: The Dodgers, Yankees, Mets, Red Sox, Cubs, Giants, etc.
However, according to reports, a sleeper team has emerged as a serious contender for Ohtani.
According to Ken Rosenthal of FOX Sports and The Athletic, the Toronto Blue Jays have crept into the Ohtani sweepstakes.
🚨😳 Reports suggest The Blue Jays are very much in the mix to land free agent Shohei Ohtani this off-season!
What chances between 1-10 do YOU give the Jays of pulling it off? 🤔 pic.twitter.com/ipECPh9Cxq
— Bodog (@BodogCA) November 16, 2023
With key players like Matt Chapman, Kevin Kiermaier, Brandon Belt, and Whit Merrifield hitting free agency, Blue Jays General Manager Ross Atkins has expressed the team’s desire to bolster their lineup.
Ohtani stands out as a prime target, especially given his unique two-way ability … He’s expected to resume pitching in 2025 – but will be ready to hit in time for next season.
A rival executive, speaking to Rosenthal on condition of anonymity, outlined three compelling reasons why the Blue Jays could be a serious contender for Ohtani.
Firstly, the team is in need of left-handed power in their lineup. Secondly, George Springer’s hefty $150 million contract has only three years remaining, potentially freeing up financial flexibility for a major move.
Lastly, the plans to lock in young stars Vladimir Guerrero Jr. and Bo Bichette with massive contract extensions might be postponed, opening up additional funds for a blockbuster deal.
Adding fuel to the speculation, ESPN’s Jeff Passan reported that the Blue Jays plan “to do something big” this offseason.
Blue Jays getting Ohtani
pic.twitter.com/vtB7whxQJJ— SeanTalksSports (@SeanTaIksSports) November 15, 2023
Of course, signing Ohtani is easier said than done for a variety of reasons – and at the end of the day, it’s his decision where he signs.
If Ohtani doesn’t want to play for Toronto, it doesn’t matter how interested the Jays are or how much they offer.
Let’s be honest – it’s a little hard to imagine Ohtani wearing a Blue Jays jersey, isn’t it?
Where do you think he will end up???