Shohei Ohtani Signs Record Contract with Dodgers

Shohei Ohtani enjoyed a historic first season with the Los Angeles Dodgers, leading the team to its first full-season World Series title since 1988 while becoming the unanimous National League MVP after hitting 54 home runs and stealing 59 bases. His record-breaking 10-year, $700 million contract, which included $680 million in deferred payments, allowed the Dodgers to bolster their roster, resulting in significant financial gains estimated at around $120 million. Despite a challenging start to the 2024 season marked by a gambling scandal involving his former interpreter, the Dodgers rallied around Ohtani, who was cleared of any wrongdoing. Following the World Series, Ohtani underwent surgery for a torn labrum and may not pitch again, focusing instead on a successful return as a hitter. With the Dodgers set to open the 2025 season in Tokyo, Ohtani's recovery timeline is being closely monitored, although he is unlikely to pitch during the season-opening series. Manager Dave Roberts emphasized the team's cautious approach to Ohtani's return to pitching, prioritizing his health over rushing him back onto the mound.