Shohei Ohtani: The "Face of Baseball" Poised for Global Stardom

Who holds the title for the most lucrative contract in sports? While many might think of Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo, or LeBron James, the answer is actually Shohei Ohtani.

For four consecutive years, the 30-year-old Japanese superstar has shined as an MLB All-Star. However, this season, after transferring from the Los Angeles Angels to the Dodgers, Ohtani has truly captivated the hearts of US sports fans with a record-breaking performance that isn’t over yet. He’s set to make his post-season debut during the Division Series, and you can catch two of the games live on the BBC.

A Dual Threat Like No Other

What sets Ohtani apart is his unique ability as a two-way player. In 2021, he made history by being the first player selected for the All-Star game as both a hitter and pitcher. While there have been two-way players in baseball’s history, Ohtani is the first to excel at both roles simultaneously.

“The idea that someone could be so good at both was mind-blowing,” said Joe Posnanski, author of Why We Love Baseball. Babe Ruth, known for his home runs, also pitched early in his career, but he never maintained that dual threat to the extent Ohtani has.

Having honed his skills in Japan for five years before joining the MLB, Ohtani’s talent has been recognized since his arrival. Former MLB player Chase Utley recalls a scout telling him, “This guy is by far the best player I’ve ever seen.”

Record-Breaking Contracts

Ohtani initially joined the Angels in 2018 and was named the American League Rookie of the Year. After being named the AL MVP in 2021 and 2023, he became a free agent, ultimately signing a 10-year deal worth $700 million with the Dodgers. This contract surpasses those of football stars Ronaldo and Messi, solidifying his status as a top-earning athlete.

Forbes reported that while Ohtani’s on-field earnings are substantial, his off-field income of $60 million further boosts his financial standing. His popularity has led to exclusive long-term trading card deals, showcasing his appeal not just as a player but as a brand.

“He’s a really likable guy,” noted David Leiner, president of trading cards at Topps. “He works incredibly hard and is a great face for the sport. He’s transcending baseball.”

The Pursuit of Greatness

Despite missing the entire season as a pitcher due to elbow surgery, Ohtani has continued to impress as a hitter. This year, he achieved personal bests of 54 home runs and 59 stolen bases, becoming the first player to reach 50 in both categories in a single season.

“Baseball is a very statistical game, and every day he seems to set some sort of new record,” Posnanski commented. Ohtani’s remarkable versatility has garnered him accolades and admiration, with Utley asserting, “He can really do it all.”

Aiming for the Post-Season

During his time with the Angels, Ohtani never made the playoffs, but joining the Dodgers—a team with a history of post-season success—might change that narrative. The Dodgers won their last World Series title in 2020 and have made the playoffs for 12 consecutive years.

To help maintain a competitive roster, Ohtani has deferred $680 million of his contract to be paid between 2034 and 2043. As he prepares for the playoffs, his focus is clear: a World Series title could elevate his status to that of global sports icons like LeBron James and Stephen Curry.

“We’re all pretty excited,” Posnanski said. “If Ohtani can achieve greatness in the World Series, it could solidify his place among the all-time greats.”