Shohei Ohtani’s groundbreaking contract with the Los Angeles Dodgers, characterized by unprecedented deferrals, was a concept initiated by the player himself. However, it appears that Ohtani didn’t extend the same offer to other teams vying for him during the offseason.
Brian Cashman, the general manager of the New York Yankees, disclosed on Talkin’ Yanks that Ohtani did not present a similar deal to him. Expressing his astonishment, Cashman remarked that such a contract proposal, with extensive deferrals, was a rare occurrence.
He acknowledged the logic behind Ohtani’s approach, attributing it to the player’s own initiative. However, Cashman affirmed that no such proposition was made to him in his professional career.
Brian Cashman was shocked to hear about Ohtani's deferrals and said it was never offered to him pic.twitter.com/9MQdbQoQek
— Talkin' Yanks (@TalkinYanks) February 16, 2024
Ohtani finalized a landmark 10-year, $700 million agreement with the Dodgers. Notably, he agreed to defer all but $2 million of his annual $70 million salary, ensuring he receives $68 million annually from 2034 to 2043.
Despite the staggering $680 million deferred amount over the next decade, Ohtani stands to benefit from an estimated $50 million yearly from endorsements and other off-field ventures, as reported by Fabian Ardaya of The Athletic.
The decision to defer payments was purportedly Ohtani’s gesture to facilitate the Dodgers in maintaining a roster featuring marquee talents like himself, Mookie Betts, and Freddie Freeman.
For the Yankees, securing a high-profile addition like Ohtani could have been instrumental, especially after a lackluster 82-80 season that saw them miss the playoffs.
Their primary offseason move was acquiring star outfielder Juan Soto from the San Diego Padres, who is entering the final year of his contract. Despite their efforts, the Yankees failed in their pursuits of pitcher Yoshinobu Yamamoto and star closer Josh Hader, among others.
The Yankees’ allure as a premier free-agent destination has diminished over time due to restrained spending. Looking ahead, there remains optimism that Cashman and the team may achieve better outcomes in future offseasons.
