Shohei Ohtani Primed for 'Insane' Contract
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The New York Mets ultimately couldn’t reach a deal with Carlos Correa, who ended up re-signing with the Minnesota Twins. But it will all be OK if the Mets sign Shohei Ohtani next offseason, right?
Ohtani will be a free agent after the 2023 season. It’s clear that some believe he could become baseball’s first $500 million player.
The Mets and their owner, Steve Cohen, may be willing to pay the price, per the New York Post.
The Post asked Cohen if he was interested in pursuing the current Los Angeles Angel. He responded via text, “Hard to think about next year. I’m focused on this season.”
The Post then spoke to someone close to the Mets, who said even if the Mets ultimately don’t get Ohtani, the pitcher/designated hitter will get paid.
“The Mets will make Ohtani the best-paid player in the history of sports — whether he plays for the Mets or not — because the offer will be insane. And if someone else wants to beat it go ahead.”
Ohtani will get paid $30 million in 2023. Angels owner Arte Moreno recently pulled the team off the sale market. But that doesn’t clarity whether the Angels want to re-sign Ohtani next offseason or not.
This past offseason was seismic, financially speaking. New York Yankees star Aaron Judge signed a $360 million deal. Shortstop Trea Turner netted $300 million from the Philadelphia Phillies.
Ohtani is a rarity — a two-way player who excels as both a pitcher and as a hitter. He’s also quickly become one of the game’s most popular players, who draws attention whether he’s at home or on the road. At age 28, he’s already been a Rookie of the Year, an MVP and a two-time All-Star. Last year he hit .273 with 34 home runs and 95 RBI, while going 15-9 with a 2.33 ERA as a starting pitcher.
You can find Matthew Postins on Twitter @PostinsPostcard
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