Rival team has emerged as a “long shot”… Intensifying competition for Shohei Ohtani, financial margin and concerns | Full-Count

A team executive: “I think the Blue Jays are a long shot.”

Ken Rosenthal of the American sports media outlet The Athletic reported that the Blue Jays may be in the race for pitcher Shohei Ohtani, who became a free agent from the Angels. He points out that contract extensions for the team’s key players may be put on hold, potentially creating some financial leeway.

The article states, “At least one team executive believes the Blue Jays are a longshot when it comes to Ohtani’s departure.” At present, there is a possibility that contract extension plans for infielder Vladimir Guerrero Jr., who will become a free agent after the 2025 season, and infielder Bo Bichette, who has completed the first year of his three-year contract, may be put on hold. , mentioned the possibility of joining the competition for Ohtani this off-season.

The Blue Jays need a long-range gun on the left, and Otani is a perfect fit. Outfielder George Springer’s six-year, $150 million contract (approximately 22.4 billion yen) expires after the 2026 season, so they will need a player with hitting ability going forward. It is explained that Toronto’s ability to promote itself as an “international city” is an appealing point, as the Japanese population is increasing. On the other hand, there is a concern that if Otani’s priority is winning, he may be able to avoid the American League East since it is full of strong teams.

Blue Jays reporter Rob Longley of the local newspaper “Toronto Sun” also cited the same article, saying, “Maybe they have the money to create (financial) leeway in acquiring Ohtani.” pointed out the gender. If he joins the Blue Jays, he will be teammates with Guerrero Jr., who competed for the home run title in 2021.

(Full-Count Editorial Department)