MLB Rumors: Shohei Ohtani Contract, Free Agency Landing Spot Predicted by Insiders

Shohei Ohtani's free agency could be one for the ages after the 2023 MLB season, and ESPN's Kiley McDaniel provided some insight in what to expect should the Los Angeles Angels star hit the open market.

McDaniel canvassed a panel of 26 executives, agents and insiders from around MLB, a majority of whom pegged Ohtani's value at anywhere from $500 million to as much as $605 million.

A small handful of teams were floated as possible landing spots as well:

"While it was too early in the process for some of our panel to give an expected destination, six of the 26 responses came with a thought on the landing spot. Two insiders said the Dodgers, one said either the Dodgers or Mets, another said either the Dodgers or Yankees, the fifth said either the Dodgers, Padres or Mariners, and the final one chose the Giants."

McDaniel added there's "a popular belief" Ohtani would like to remain on the West Coast. In that case, the Los Angeles Dodgers could have the inside track.

The Athletic's Ken Rosenthal reported in December how the Dodgers might already be looking to preserve the financial flexibility required "for the player they truly want": Ohtani. That would explain why L.A. had a somewhat muted offseason.

It's easy to see why the 28-year-old is such a tantalizing target and one whose value is difficult to truly project. He remains an elite hitter in 2023, boasting a .295/.366/.512 slash line through 33 games, and he's a perfect 4-0 with an American League-high 59 strikeouts through seven starts.

Ohtani's previous Tommy John surgery raises concerns about how long he can continue to excel as a two-way player. There may come a time when he has to give up pitching and become a full-time position player.

Still, the 2021 AL MVP might be in line for a record-setting contract even if he were exclusively a hitter.

Ohtani's off-field appeal adds to the overall package. McDaniel described him as "the rare player who will substantively change ticket sales, rights deals and sponsorships." Because of that, more teams will be incentivized to make a genuine pursuit.

A return to the Angels can't be entirely off the table, either, since they're second in the American League West at 19-16. Their recent track record isn't great, but making the playoffs might be enough to tip the scales in their favor.

For most fans, it will probably feel a bit underwhelming if such a unique free agency ultimately ends with Ohtani going to one of the usual suspects such as the Dodgers or New York Yankees.