New York Mets Expected to Make 'Biggest Offer' for Superstar Free Agent
It's no secret that two-way superstar Shohei Ohtani is likely on his way out from the Los Angeles Angels this offseason.
Ohtani will be one of the most highly sought after free agents of all-time, and is expected to receive the richest contract in baseball history.
As John Harper of SNY reported, people around baseball expect the New York Mets to make the biggest offer to Ohtani.
"If the Japanese superstar is willing, every baseball person I spoke to fully expects that owner Steve Cohen would make the biggest offer, even if Ohtani won’t pitch in 2024 and even though the Mets have indicated they may not be all-in next season after their sell-off at the trade deadline," wrote Harper.
There have been rumors that Ohtani might prefer to remain on the west coast, which would take the Mets out of the running. However, if Ohtani is willing to come to New York, Cohen can and will offer the most money to lure him to the Big Apple.
Ohtani suffered a torn UCL this season, which he underwent elbow surgery for on Tuesday. He will be able hit by Opening Day 2024 and pitch again in 2025. Even still, his bat would still be a major impact in the Mets' lineup.
Cohen and general manager Billy Eppler have both indicated that the Mets are not going to spend like they're all-in heading into 2024. That said, acquiring a player of Ohtani's caliber is a once in a lifetime opportunity. The Mets would be wise to pursue him and if they can land him, it would change the trajectory of the franchise for many years.
