History of Shohei Ohtani in Timeline
Shohei Ohtani, nicknamed "Shotime", is a Japanese professional baseball player for the Los Angeles Dodgers. He is renowned for his exceptional abilities as both a pitcher and a designated hitter, a rare combination in baseball. His talent has earned him comparisons to baseball legend Babe Ruth, with many considering his peak performance among the greatest in the sport's history. Before joining the Dodgers, Ohtani played for the Los Angeles Angels in MLB and the Hokkaido Nippon-Ham Fighters in Japan's Nippon Professional Baseball (NPB).
1913: Earned Runs Become Official
Earned runs became an official statistic in Major League Baseball in 1913.
1920: RBI Becomes an Official Statistic
In 1920, RBI became an official statistic in Major League Baseball.
1930: Babe Ruth's Walking Record
In 1930, Babe Ruth set an AL/NL record by drawing 13 walks in a 4-game span, a record later tied by Bryce Harper in 2016, Yasmani Grandal in 2021, and Shohei Ohtani from September 22 to 25.
1950: Historic Two-Way Performance
Shohei Ohtani was the second player in NPB history, following Osamu Takechi in 1950, to start a game as a pitcher, bat in the heart of the order, and get a hit and an RBI in that game.
1951: Unique Two-Way Player
Shohei Ohtani was the second rookie in Nippon Professional Baseball to be used as both a pitcher and position player since Kikuo Tokunaga in 1951.
1963: Unusual Batting Order for a Pitcher
Shohei Ohtani was the first NPB pitcher since Takao Kajimoto in 1963 to bat 3rd, 4th, or 5th in the lineup.
1967: Toshiaki Moriyasu's Shutout Victory
In 1967, Toshiaki Moriyasu became the first pitcher out of high school to record a 1-0 shutout victory within his first two years for the Fighters.
April 26, 1970: Luis Tiant's Accomplishment
On April 26, 1970, Luis Tiant, playing for the Minnesota Twins, achieved a rare feat: throwing a scoreless top half and recording a hit, an RBI, a stolen base, and a scored run in an AL ballpark. This accomplishment was later mirrored by Shohei Ohtani in a game on July 26.
1982: Reggie Jackson's Home Run Record
In 1982, Reggie Jackson set the record for most home runs by a left-handed batter in Angels history with 39. This record stood until Shohei Ohtani surpassed it in August 18 with his 40th home run of the year.
July 5, 1994: Shohei Ohtani is born
Shohei Ohtani was born on July 5, 1994.
1998: Jose Canseco Achieves 45-25 Season
In 1998, Jose Canseco became the first AL player to record at least 45 home runs and 25 stolen bases in a season. Shohei Ohtani became the second player to accomplish this feat in 2021.
1999: Ken Griffey Jr. Achieves 40-20 Season
Ken Griffey Jr. achieved a 40 home run and 20 stolen base season in 1999, becoming one of the few AL players to accomplish this feat before September, alongside Alex Rodriguez in 2007. Shohei Ohtani later joined this group in August 28.
2000: Troy Glaus' Home Run Record
In 2000, Troy Glaus set the Angels single-season home run record with 47. This record remained unbroken as of 2021, when Shohei Ohtani finished the season with the second-most home runs in Angels history at 46.
2001: Daisuke Matsuzaka's High Salary
In 2001, Daisuke Matsuzaka became the first player out of high school in NPB history to reach 100M yen in salary in his third year.
2004: Johan Santana's Dominant Six-Game Span
In 2004, Johan Santana achieved a 6-0 record with 58+ strikeouts and 2 or fewer earned runs over a six-game span, a feat later matched by Ohtani and other pitching greats.
2006: Tadahito Iguchi's Seven-RBI Game
In 2006, Tadahito Iguchi achieved seven RBIs in a single game, a record for Japanese-born players that was later surpassed by Shohei Ohtani.
August 21, 2007: Garret Anderson's Franchise Record RBIs
On August 21, 2007, Garret Anderson set an Angels franchise record with 10 RBIs in a game against the New York Yankees.
2007: Alex Rodriguez Achieves 40-20 Season
In 2007, Alex Rodriguez achieved a 40 home run and 20 stolen base season, becoming one of the few AL players to accomplish this feat before September, alongside Ken Griffey Jr. in 1999. Shohei Ohtani later joined this group in August 28.
2009: Hideki Matsui's Seven-RBI Game
In 2009, Hideki Matsui achieved seven RBIs in a single game, setting a record for Japanese-born players that was later surpassed by Shohei Ohtani.
2010: Yoshinori Sato Sets Pitching Speed Record
In 2010, Yoshinori Sato of the Yakult Swallows set the record for the fastest official pitch thrown by a Japanese pitcher at 161 km/h (100 mph).
2011: Curtis Granderson's 40-20 Season
Curtis Granderson achieved both 40 home runs and 20 stolen bases in a single season in 2011. Shohei Ohtani became the first AL player to repeat this accomplishment since Granderson on August 28.
2011: Jered Weaver's Low Home ERA
In 2011, Jered Weaver recorded the lowest home ERA by an Angels starter until Shohei Ohtani's 1.95 ERA across 13 starts in 2021.
September 2012: Chase Headley's Back-to-Back Player of the Month Awards
In September 2012, Chase Headley achieved back-to-back Player of the Month Awards in August and September, a feat that was later mirrored by Shohei Ohtani in July and August. This marked the first time a player achieved this in either league since Headley's accomplishment.
October 21, 2012: Announces MLB Aspirations and Signs with Hokkaido Nippon-Ham Fighters
On October 21, 2012, Shohei Ohtani announced his desire to play in Major League Baseball, but he signed with the Hokkaido Nippon-Ham Fighters to gain experience before moving to the MLB.
2012: Drafted by Hokkaido Nippon-Ham Fighters
In 2012, Shohei Ohtani was the first pick of the Hokkaido Nippon-Ham Fighters in the NPB draft.
2012: Sets Japanese High School Baseball Record
In 2012, at 18 years old, Shohei Ohtani threw a 99 mph fastball, setting a Japanese high school baseball record.
2012: Ohtani Represents Japan at the 18U Baseball World Championship
In 2012, a young Shohei Ohtani showcased his talent on the international stage as a member of Japan's Under-18 National Team. The team competed in the 18U Baseball World Championship held in Seoul, ultimately finishing in sixth place. Ohtani's participation in this prestigious tournament demonstrated his early promise and foreshadowed his future success on the world stage.
2012: R.A. Dickey's Dominant Six-Game Span
In 2012, R.A. Dickey achieved a 6-0 record with 58+ strikeouts and 2 or fewer earned runs over a six-game span, joining an elite group of pitchers including Ohtani.
March 29, 2013: Professional Debut
Shohei Ohtani made his professional debut with the Hokkaido Nippon-Ham Fighters at age 18 on March 29, 2013, playing as a right fielder.
2013: Ohtani's Rookie Season
In 2013, Shohei Ohtani had a 3-0 record with a 4.23 ERA and 46 strikeouts in 61 2/3 innings pitched. He also hit .238 with 8 home runs in 204 plate appearances.
2013: Meeting Ippei Mizuhara
In 2013, Shohei Ohtani met Ippei Mizuhara, who would become his personal interpreter during his time with the Fighters, Angels, and Dodgers. Mizuhara's role extended beyond translation to include confidant, conditioning coach, and throwing partner.
2013: NPB Debut
Shohei Ohtani made his NPB debut with the Hokkaido Nippon-Ham Fighters in 2013.
July 2014: Ohtani Sets Japanese Pitching Speed Record
In July 2014 during the Mazda All-Star Game, Shohei Ohtani threw a 162 km/h (101 mph) fastball, setting a new record for the fastest official pitch thrown by a Japanese pitcher.
2014: Clayton Kershaw's Dominant Six-Game Span
In 2014, Clayton Kershaw achieved a 6-0 record with 58+ strikeouts and 2 or fewer earned runs over a six-game span, a feat also achieved by Ohtani and a few other pitching greats.
2014: Garrett Richards' 110 Strikeouts in the First Half
In 2014, Garrett Richards became the first Angels pitcher to reach 110 strikeouts in the first half of the season, a feat later matched by Ohtani in fewer innings.
2015: Ohtani's Dominance in the Premier 12
Shohei Ohtani was dominant for the Japanese national team in the 2015 Premier 12, striking out 11 batters in 7 innings against South Korea in the semifinals.
2015: Ohtani Leads Japan to Bronze in WBSC Premier12 and Earns Global Recognition
In 2015, Shohei Ohtani played a pivotal role in leading the Japanese national team to a bronze medal in the inaugural WBSC Premier12 tournament. As the ace of the pitching staff, which also featured notable pitcher Kenta Maeda, Ohtani delivered dominant performances against rival South Korea, securing a win in Game 1 of the opening round and earning a no-decision in the semifinals. His exceptional contributions earned him a spot on the 2015 World Baseball Softball Confederation All-World Team and the prestigious title of 2015 WBSC Baseball Player of the Year.
2015: Ohtani's Third Professional Season
In 2015, Shohei Ohtani had a strong season on the mound, finishing with a 15-5 record, a 2.24 ERA, and 196 strikeouts in 160 2/3 innings pitched. This performance earned him the starter role in the 2015 All-Star Game and a spot on the Pacific League Best Nine awards.
2016: Bryce Harper Ties Walking Records
In 2016, Bryce Harper tied Babe Ruth's AL/NL record for walks in a 4-game span, drawing 13. Harper also set the MLB record for walks drawn in a 3-game span with 11, both of which were later tied by Shohei Ohtani.
2016: Ohtani's MVP Season
In 2016, Shohei Ohtani hit 22 home runs and had a 1.86 ERA in 140 innings pitched, winning both the Best Nine award as a designated hitter and a pitcher. He was also named the Pacific League MVP.
2016: Wins Japan Series
Shohei Ohtani won the 2016 Japan Series with the Hokkaido Nippon-Ham Fighters.
2017: Posted to MLB
After the 2017 season, the Hokkaido Nippon-Ham Fighters posted Shohei Ohtani to Major League Baseball.
2017: Ohtani Partners with Agent Nez Balelo
In 2017, as Shohei Ohtani embarked on his MLB career, he entered into a partnership with agent Nez Balelo of CAA Sports. This strategic alliance aimed to guide and support Ohtani's journey in the Major Leagues, leveraging Balelo's expertise and industry connections.
2017: Ohtani Withdraws from World Baseball Classic Due to Injury
Shohei Ohtani was named to the 28-man roster for the Japan National Baseball Team for the 2017 World Baseball Classic, but unfortunately, an ankle injury prevented him from participating in the tournament.
2018: Wins AL Rookie of the Year Award
Shohei Ohtani won the American League Rookie of the Year Award in 2018.
2018: Record Broken
Shohei Ohtani's high school fastball record was broken by Rōki Sasaki's 101 mph fastball in 2018.
2018: Ohtani Recognized in Forbes 30 Under 30 Asia
In 2018, Shohei Ohtani's rising star power was acknowledged with his inclusion in the prestigious Forbes 30 Under 30 Asia list in the Entertainment & Sports category. This recognition highlighted his growing influence and impact as a global sports figure.
2018: Mike Trout's Intentional Walks Record
In 2018, Mike Trout had the most intentional walks by an AL player until Shohei Ohtani, his teammate, surpassed this record in 2021.
2019: Injury-Plagued Season
Shohei Ohtani had an injury-plagued season in 2019.
2020: Mookie Betts' Arbitration Record
In 2020, Mookie Betts set an arbitration record with a $27 million contract, which was later surpassed by Shohei Ohtani in 2023.
2020: Injury-Plagued Season
Shohei Ohtani had another injury-plagued season in 2020.
November 16, 2021: FTX Global Ambassador
On November 16, 2021, Shohei Ohtani joined cryptocurrency exchange FTX as a global ambassador, partnering on various animal charitable initiatives.
2021: Ohtani Hits 30+ Homers
He would enter the All-Star Game with 30+ homers for the second time in his career, having hit 33 previously in 2021.
2021: Ohtani Named to Time 100 and Receives Commissioner's Historic Achievement Award
In 2021, Shohei Ohtani achieved significant milestones in recognition of his extraordinary talent and impact on the game of baseball. He was named to the esteemed Time 100 list, which recognizes the world's most influential people. Additionally, Commissioner Rob Manfred bestowed upon him the Commissioner's Historic Achievement Award, highlighting Ohtani's unique and groundbreaking contributions to the sport.
2021: Ohtani's Historic 2021 Season
In 2021, Shohei Ohtani had a historic season, earning him two Guinness World Records titles, the Commissioner's Historic Achievement Award, and a No. 1 ranking in The Sporting News' 'The 50 greatest seasons in sports history, ranked.'
2021: Ohtani's Previous Strikeout Record
In 2021, Shohei Ohtani set a single-season record of 156 strikeouts, which he surpassed in 2022.
2021: Ohtani Leads MLB in Endorsement Earnings
Shohei Ohtani became the highest-earning MLB player in endorsements in 2021, securing an estimated $6 million in endorsement deals. This accomplishment showcased his growing popularity and marketability.
2021: Ohtani's Previous Salary
Shohei Ohtani earned $3 million in 2021, receiving significant raises in subsequent seasons.
2021: Historic Season and AL MVP Award
Shohei Ohtani had a historic season in 2021, becoming the first player in MLB history to achieve 10+ home runs and 20+ stolen bases as a hitter and 100+ strikeouts and 10+ pitching appearances as a pitcher. He was awarded the American League Most Valuable Player Award.
2021: Ohtani's Speed and Baserunning Prowess Shine
Shohei Ohtani's exceptional speed and baserunning prowess were on full display during the 2021 season. Scouts clocked him running from home plate to first base in as little as 3.8 seconds, ranking him in the 92nd percentile of all players for sprint speed. His 28.8 feet per second (19.6 mph) sprint speed and 3.51 second 80-foot split showcased his remarkable athleticism. Moreover, Ohtani recorded the fastest home-to-first average sprint time in the Major Leagues at 4.09 seconds, achieving a career-high 26 stolen bases. These achievements cemented his reputation as a multi-talented threat on the basepaths.
2021: Yasmani Grandal Ties Walking Record
Yasmani Grandal tied Babe Ruth's AL/NL record for most walks in a 4-game span, drawing 13. Shohei Ohtani later tied this record, along with Bryce Harper's 3-game walking record.
2021: Shohei Ohtani Wins Numerous Awards and Accolades
In 2021, Shohei Ohtani had a historic year, winning numerous awards and accolades. Some of these included being unanimously voted the American League Most Valuable Player, becoming the first designated hitter to win the award, being named to both the first and second All-MLB teams in the same season, being the first pitcher and Japanese player to win the Edgar Martínez Outstanding Designated Hitter Award, being named the Associated Press Athlete of the Year, and being named to Time 100's most influential people of 2021.
March 22, 2022: Introduction of the 'Ohtani Rule' and Opening Day Start
On March 22, 2022, MLB introduced the 'Ohtani rule,' allowing a pitcher to remain as DH after pitching. Ohtani started Opening Day as both pitcher and leadoff hitter, a first in MLB history.
July 6, 2022: Ohtani's Historic Triple Achievement
On July 6, 2022, Shohei Ohtani became the first player since 1920 to record 10 strikeouts as a pitcher, two RBIs as a batter, and a stolen base in a single game.
August 9, 2022: Ohtani's Historic Triple Feat
On August 9, 2022, Shohei Ohtani joined Babe Ruth in the 10-homer, 10-win club, moved to second place on the all-time home run list for Japanese-born players, and set a single-season career high in strikeouts.
November 2022: FTX Bankruptcy and Lawsuit
In November 2022, FTX filed for bankruptcy, wiping out billions of dollars in customer funds. Ohtani, alongside other spokespeople, was sued for promoting unregistered securities through a class-action lawsuit.
2022: Ohtani's Historic Two-Game Span
In a two-game span in 2022, Shohei Ohtani became the first player in MLB history to record at least eight RBIs in a game and strike out at least 10 batters the next day.
2022: Ohtani's Previous Salary
Shohei Ohtani earned $5.5 million in 2022, receiving a significant raise for the 2023 season.
2022: Ohtani's Endorsement Earnings Lead MLB
Shohei Ohtani led all MLB players in endorsement earnings in 2022, amassing an estimated $20 million. This achievement demonstrated his significant marketability and widespread popularity.
2022: Ohtani Becomes Brand Ambassador for Several Companies and Graces the Cover of MLB The Show
Shohei Ohtani's influence in the marketing world continued to grow in 2022 as he became a brand ambassador for a diverse range of companies, including Kowa, Mitsubishi Bank, Japan Airlines, Salesforce, Porsche Japan (as part of their "Porsche Driving Athlete" family), and Fanatics. These partnerships showcased his broad appeal and marketability. Additionally, Ohtani achieved another significant milestone by becoming the first Asian player to be featured as a cover athlete for the popular video game MLB The Show, solidifying his status as a global icon within the sport.
2022: Qualifies for Hitting and Pitching Leaderboards
In 2022, Shohei Ohtani became the first player in the modern era to qualify for both the hitting and pitching leaderboards in one season.
2022: Ohtani's 2022 Season
In 2022, Ohtani finished with a 15–9 record, a 2.33 ERA, and 219 strikeouts in 166 innings pitched. He also hit .273/.356/.519 with 34 homers, 30 doubles, 11 stolen bases, and 95 RBIs in 157 games played.
2022: Ohtani Opts Out of Pitching
Like 2022, Ohtani opted to participate only as a hitter in the All-Star Game and not pitch due to a blister.
March 2023: Ohtani's Endorsement Earnings Soar
In March 2023, Shohei Ohtani's endorsement earnings for the year were estimated to be between $35 and $40 million, making him the highest-earning MLB player in endorsements. This figure reflected a significant increase from his 2022 earnings of $20 million, which itself had tripled from his 2021 earnings of $6 million. Ohtani's impressive endorsement portfolio includes partnerships with prominent brands such as New Balance, Fanatics, Topps, and Panini in the U.S., as well as Hugo Boss, Kosé, Porsche Japan, Kowa, Mitsubishi Bank, Japan Airlines, Salesforce, Nishikawa Co., and Seiko Watch in Japan. This widespread appeal across both American and Japanese markets solidified his position as a global marketing powerhouse.
April 2023: Dismissal from FTX Lawsuit
In April 2023, Ohtani's lawyers filed for his dismissal from the FTX lawsuit.
June 15, 2023: Ohtani Named AL Player of the Week
Ohtani was named AL Player of the Week for the fifth time in his career after hitting six home runs, going .435 (10-for-23), 12 RBIs, 10 walks and a 1.893 OPS over seven games from June 12 to 18, 2023, at the plate and picking up a win as starting pitcher on June 15, 2023, against the Texas Rangers.
July 2, 2023: Ohtani Wins Sixth AL Player of the Week Award
Ohtani would finish the month of June by winning his sixth career Player of the Week Award, surpassing Suzuki for the most by a Japanese-born player, after hitting six home runs with a 1.783 OPS over a seven-day span from June 26 to July 2, 2023, including a career-long 493-foot home run, the longest homer in the 2023 MLB season; as well as winning his third career American League Player of the Month for June.
September 19, 2023: Ohtani Undergoes Elbow Surgery
He received elbow surgery performed by Dr. Neal ElAttrache on September 19, 2023, to address the UCL tear in his right elbow.
December 11, 2023: Ohtani Signs Record-breaking Contract with the Dodgers
On December 11, 2023, Shohei Ohtani made history by signing a monumental 10-year, $700 million contract with the Los Angeles Dodgers. This landmark deal became the largest in professional sports history, underscoring Ohtani's exceptional talent and value. The contract's unique structure deferred $68 million per season until the end of the agreement, to be paid out from 2034 to 2043.
2023: World Baseball Classic MVP and Championship
Shohei Ohtani won the MVP award at the 2023 World Baseball Classic, leading Japan to victory over the United States.
2023: Ohtani Makes History as the Only Player Named to the All-WBC Team at Two Positions
In a historic achievement, Shohei Ohtani became the only player to be named to the All-WBC team at two separate positions in 2023, having been selected for both designated hitter and pitcher. This unprecedented recognition highlights his unparalleled versatility and exceptional abilities in both aspects of the game, solidifying his position as one of the most unique and talented players in baseball history.
2023: Ohtani's Record-Breaking Contract
Shohei Ohtani signed a one-year, $30 million contract for the 2023 season, setting a record for a player in his third year of arbitration.
2023: Ohtani Earns Spot on 2023 All-Star Roster
Ohtani earned an automatic spot on the 2023 All-Star roster after being the leading vote-getter in the American League All-Star ballot during Phase 1 of fan voting, received 2,646,307 votes as the starter in the DH position. He was also elected as an All-Star pitcher for the American League, making it the third straight year Ohtani was named an All-Star as both a pitcher and a DH.
2023: Ohtani's 2023 Season Begins
In 2023, fresh off being named the Most Valuable Player of the 2023 World Baseball Classic, Ohtani made his second straight Opening Day start for the Angels while batting third in the lineup against the Athletics on March 30. On May 10, he struck out Jeremy Peña of the Astros for his 502nd career pitching strikeout, passing Babe Ruth on the all-time strikeout list. With this feat, he also set the record for most pitching strikeouts by a player with 100 home runs.
2023: Ohtani Leads Japan to Victory in the World Baseball Classic, Wins MVP Award
In 2023, Shohei Ohtani once again demonstrated his exceptional abilities by leading the Japan National Baseball Team to a historic victory in the World Baseball Classic. He earned the save in the championship game against the United States, striking out his Los Angeles Angels teammate, Mike Trout, with a 3-2 slider to secure Japan's championship. His outstanding performance throughout the tournament included a .435 batting average, a .606 on-base percentage, a .739 slugging percentage, a 1.86 ERA, and 11 strikeouts in 9 2⁄3 innings. These exceptional contributions led him to be named the Pool B MVP and ultimately earned him the tournament's coveted MVP award, solidifying his status as a global baseball icon.
2023: Ohtani Expands Endorsement Portfolio with New Balance and Kosé
In 2023, Shohei Ohtani further expanded his already impressive endorsement portfolio by signing new deals with renowned athletic brand New Balance and Japanese cosmetics company Kosé. These partnerships demonstrated his continued appeal and marketability, attracting prominent brands from both the sports and beauty industries.
2023: Another Historic Season, Home Run Title, Unanimous MVP, and Record Contract
In 2023, Shohei Ohtani achieved another historic season, becoming the first player in MLB history with 10 wins and 40 home runs, the first Japanese-born player to win a major league home run title, and the first player to win MVP by a unanimous vote twice. He also signed a record-breaking 10-year, $700 million contract with the Los Angeles Dodgers after the season.
2023: Ohtani Wins Numerous Awards and Becomes a Free Agent
In 2023, Shohei Ohtani achieved a series of remarkable feats. He was unanimously voted the American League Most Valuable Player for the second time, a historic first in MLB history. His exceptional year also included selection to the All-MLB Team, both as a designated hitter and starting pitcher, marking another groundbreaking achievement. Ohtani further solidified his status as a dominant player by winning his third consecutive Edgar Martínez Outstanding Designated Hitter Award, his second Silver Slugger Award, and his first AL Hank Aaron Award. His contributions were recognized by his team, the Los Angeles Angels, who named him their Player of the Year for the third straight year. The wider sports world also celebrated Ohtani's accomplishments, awarding him his second Associated Press AP Athlete of the Year and his second Baseball America Major League Player of the Year honor. His peers recognized his outstanding performance with his second Players Choice American League Outstanding Player Award. With his contract expiring after the 2023 season, Ohtani entered free agency for the first time in his career.
2023: Ohtani Finishes 2023 Season as Home Run Leader
In 2023, Ohtani ended the season as the first Japanese-born player to lead a U.S. major league in home runs, capturing the American League title with 44 home runs.
February 2024: Ohtani Announces Marriage to Mamiko Tanaka
In February 2024, Shohei Ohtani announced his marriage but initially chose to keep his wife's identity private, simply stating that she was "a normal Japanese woman." The following month, he revealed her to be former professional basketball player Mamiko Tanaka by sharing a photograph of them together.
March 2024: Gambling Debt Controversy and Interpreter Change
In March 2024, an ESPN investigation revealed $4.5 million in payments from Ohtani's account to a bookmaking operation. Mizuhara claimed responsibility for the payments, stating they were to cover his gambling debts. However, Ohtani's legal team claimed he was a victim of theft. Subsequently, the Dodgers fired Mizuhara, and Will Ireton became Ohtani's new interpreter. Ohtani denied any involvement in gambling.
2024: Ohtani Will Not Pitch in 2024
It was later revealed that Ohtani would not pitch for the rest of the 2023 season and the 2024 season after suffering a ulnar collateral ligament tear in his right elbow.
2034: Deferred Payments Begin for Ohtani's Dodgers Contract
In 2034, the deferred payments from Shohei Ohtani's historic 10-year, $700 million contract with the Los Angeles Dodgers are scheduled to begin. This marks the commencement of a multi-year payout plan for the portion of his wages that were structured to be disbursed after the contract's initial term.
2043: Final Deferred Payments for Ohtani's Dodgers Contract
The year 2043 marks the final deferred payments from Shohei Ohtani's groundbreaking 10-year, $700 million contract with the Los Angeles Dodgers. These payments conclude the unique financial arrangement set forth in the deal, solidifying its place as one of the most significant contracts in sports history.