Oakland Athletics v Los Angeles Angels - Ronald Martinez/ GettyImages
The Los Angeles Dodgers have made a major splash in the offseason with the acquisition of two-way superstar Shohei Ohtani. While the record-breaking 10-year, $700 million contract has caught headlines, the financial implications and the team’s ability to further strengthen their roster have sparked curiosity. In this article, we will look into the details of Ohtani’s contract, explore the Dodgers’ available funds, and discuss potential moves that could enhance their chances of winning a World Series title.
Understanding Ohtani’s Contract
Many people celebrate Shohei Ohtani’s contract with the Dodgers as the largest deal in North American sports history. However, we should note that they deferred a significant portion of the $700 million. This discounts the Competitive Balance Tax (CBT) number, also known as the luxury tax. While Ohtani will eventually receive the full $700 million, the Dodgers will only have to pay him an average of approximately $40-50 million per year, instead of the full $70 million.
Financial Flexibility for the Dodgers
With a large portion of Ohtani’s contract being deferred, the Dodgers still have substantial funds at their disposal. This financial flexibility allows them to pursue other players in free agency and bolster their chances of securing a World Series crown.
Despite the impending return of Walker Buehler from Tommy John surgery, the Dodgers’ rotation has several question marks. Ohtani is recovering from his second Tommy John surgery and can only hit in the 2024 season. Additionally, pitchers Dustin May and Tony Gonsolin are also recovering from Tommy John surgery, further highlighting the need for reinforcements in the rotation.
Potential Targets in Free Agency
With available funds, the Dodgers have the opportunity to pursue top-tier free agents to strengthen their rotation. Two notable names that have yet to sign are Blake Snell and Yoshinobu Yamamoto. Adding another ace to their roster would make the Dodgers formidable contenders for the World Series. The combination of Ohtani’s return to pitching in 2025 and the addition of another top-notch pitcher could create a truly fearsome pitching staff.
Building a Scary Pitching Staff
The Dodgers’ pitching staff has the potential to become one of the most dominant in Major League Baseball. With Ohtani’s return to pitching in 2025, the team could boast a formidable rotation. The combination of Ohtani, alongside the addition of a high-caliber pitcher, would create a one-two punch that opposing teams would find difficult to overcome. Furthermore, the return of Walker Buehler and the recovery of Dustin May and Tony Gonsolin would further strengthen the Dodgers’ pitching depth.
The Dodgers 2023 Regular Season Performance
Before being swept in the National League Division Series by the Arizona Diamondbacks, the Dodgers had an impressive regular season in 2023. They won a total of 101 games and secured the second seed in the National League. Despite their postseason disappointment, the team’s regular season success highlighted their capabilities and set the stage for future triumphs.
Conclusion
The Los Angeles Dodgers have made a monumental signing of Shohei Ohtani and have strategically structured his contract to maximize their financial flexibility. With a significant portion of Ohtani’s contract being deferred, the Dodgers still have ample funds to pursue other players in free agency. Adding another ace to their rotation could further solidify their chances of winning a World Series title.
When Ohtani returns to pitching in 2025, the Dodgers could boast a truly formidable pitching staff. Despite the challenges faced in the previous postseason, the team’s regular season success showcases their potential for future triumphs. The Los Angeles Dodgers remain a force to be reckoned with in Major League Baseball.
For more articles like this click here.
