Shohei Ohtani (LA Angels), a “two-hitting” star in the U.S. Major League Baseball, will be traded this year, according to U.S. media.
“The Boston Red Sox would instantly become a playoff contender with Ohtani on the roster,” Sports Illustrated said on Jan. 23.스포츠토토
Boston is in fourth place in the American League East this season. The first-place Tampa Bay Rays, second-place Baltimore Orioles, and third-place New York Yankees are formidable opponents.
But with Ohtani, who could be a huge boost to the starting lineup and offense, Boston could be a different story. “Ohtani is an impending free agent,” the outlet said, “and could be dealt at the trade deadline.”
[Photo] Shohei Ohtani of the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim. ⓒGettyimages (All rights reserved)
Ohtani is eligible for free agency at the end of this season. If the Angels’ chances of making the playoffs fall before then, he could be traded. He is expected to command more than $500 million when he becomes a free agent.
A 10-year contract has also been speculated. Boston is not the only team reportedly in the running for Ohtani, as the Los Angeles Dodgers are also in the mix.
“One expert believes that Boston is a likely destination for Ohtani this summer,” the outlet said.
Ohtani is 5-1 with a 3.05 ERA in 10 appearances on the mound this season. As a hitter, he is batting .530 with 11 home runs, 32 RBIs and a .358 on-base percentage in 47 games.
Both as a pitcher and a hitter, Ohta could be a valuable addition to a team’s lineup. He is estimated to be worth at least $500 million over 10 years.