The Los Angeles Dodgers finalized their signing of Shohei Ohtani to a 10-year, $700 million contract, capping off what was a dramatic and clandestine free agency process.
“Dodger fans, thank you for welcoming me to your team,” Ohtani said in a statement. “I can say 100 percent that you, the Dodger organization and I share the same goal – to bring World Series parades to the streets of Los Angeles.”
Although Ohtani’s contract is the richest in professional sports history, a whopping $680 million is in deferred salary. The 29-year-old is due to receive just $2 million each season throughout the duration of the 10-year deal.
That contract structure is going to play a crucial role in the Dodgers continuing to add talent to their roster this offseason and in years ahead. All the while Ohtani is set to become a driving force in the lineup and latest international star for the franchise.
“On behalf of the L.A. Dodgers and our fans everywhere, we welcome Shohei Ohtani to the Dodgers, the home of Jackie Robinson, Sandy Koufax and Hideo Nomo, three of the sport’s most legendary and pathbreaking players,” Dodgers controlling owner Mark Walter said.
“We congratulate him on his historic contract with our storied franchise. Shohei is a once-in-a-generation talent and one of the most exciting professional athletes in the world. Our players, staff, management and ownership look forward to working together with Shohei to help the Dodgers continue to add, improve and strive for excellence on the field.
“Together with Shohei, we will work to help grow the number and breadth of people around the world who enjoy the excitement of Major League Baseball.”
Shohei Ohtani luxury tax number
While Ohtani’s salary is going to be $2 million, the total that will count against the Dodgers payroll for luxury tax purposes is believed to be in the neighborhood of $46 million.
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