Report: Shohei Ohtani not expected to sign during Winter Meetings |
According to Bob Nightengale of USA Today, he is reporting that superstar Shohei Ohtani is not expected to sign this week, dispelling the rumors that a deal might be imminent.
"Despite the rampant rumors, unless someone suddenly writes a $1 billion check, Ohtani is not signing at the winter meetings. But, at least, he’s getting a little closer," he posted. Nightengale lists the Cubs among the six teams actively pursuing Ohtani's services. "There’s the Los Angeles Dodgers. The Angels. The Toronto Blue Jays. The Chicago Cubs. The San Francisco Giants. And at least one other team, call them a mystery team, are among the finalists. But sorry, Ohtani is not on the verge of a decision." Ohtani hit .304 with 44 homers, 95 RBIs, and an MLB-best 1.066 OPS in 135 games in 2023. He also had a 3.14 ERA and 1.06 WHIP in 23 starts this past season. Ohtani's remarkable performance the last few years, both as a hitter and a pitcher, has made him one of the most coveted players in the MLB. Welcome to the Ohtani Bowl pic.twitter.com/PFJCc9RYxm
