How is Shohei Ohtani influencing the Los Angeles Dodgers?

Shohei Ohtani acts as a strategic partner, influencing team-building decisions and the acquisition of elite talent.

What impact did Ohtani's contract have on the Dodgers?

His deferred salary provided financial flexibility, allowing the Dodgers to sign other star players and build a competitive roster.

Is Shohei Ohtani changing how MLB teams are built?

Yes, Ohtani's significant influence suggests a potential new era where star players have a greater voice in team construction.

Home / Sports / Ohtani Rewrites MLB Power Play

Ohtani Rewrites MLB Power Play

11 Jan

•

Summary

Ohtani acts as a partner, not just an employee, shaping team strategy.
Deferred salary allowed Dodgers financial flexibility for elite talent acquisition.
Ohtani's influence could usher in a new era of player-driven team building.

Shohei Ohtani is fundamentally altering Major League Baseball's team-building dynamics, positioning himself as a powerful partner rather than just an employee of the Los Angeles Dodgers. His vision for constructing a super team was established upon his arrival two winters ago, influencing the organization's aggressive acquisition strategy.

Central to this influence is Ohtani's monumental $700 million contract, with $680 million deferred. This financial maneuver granted the Dodgers significant flexibility, which General Manager Andrew Friedman has expertly utilized to surround Ohtani with top-tier talent, contributing to their consecutive World Series titles.

Ohtani's impact extends beyond the Dodgers, potentially heralding a new era where generational players have a greater say in roster construction. This model's attractiveness is growing across MLB, prompting other franchises to seek similarly culture-altering talents and signaling a shift in power towards star players.