In a surprising turn of events, the Chicago Cubs' hopes of landing star free agent Shohei Ohtani have taken a hit, with their optimism reportedly significantly waning. According to Bob Nightengale of USA Today, the Cubs are now expected to shift their focus to other free agents this offseason.

Nightengale's report indicates that the Los Angeles Dodgers, Toronto Blue Jays, Los Angeles Angels, and San Francisco Giants have emerged as the likely finalists in the pursuit of Ohtani. These teams will now vie for the opportunity to secure the services of the highly coveted player.

Ohtani's status as one of the most sought-after free agents in MLB history is well-deserved. The multi-talented player has earned multiple MVP awards and has showcased his exceptional skills both as a hitter and a pitcher throughout his career.

During the 2023 season, Ohtani's offensive prowess was on full display, as he slammed an impressive 44 home runs and recorded 95 RBIs in just 135 games for the Los Angeles Angels. His slash line of .304/.412/.654 further solidified his position as an offensive force to be reckoned with.

However, Ohtani's journey has hit a roadblock as he recently underwent surgery on his pitching elbow. This unfortunate development has ruled him out for the upcoming 2024 season. Despite this setback, there is hope that Ohtani will be able to return to the pitcher's mound in 2025, preserving his status as one of the most unique players in baseball.

While the Cubs may have lost some of their optimism in the Ohtani sweepstakes, fans of the team can still look forward to the latest updates on their beloved Chicago sports teams. By signing up for the All Access Daily newsletter, fans can stay in the game and stay informed about the latest developments regarding the Cubs and other Chicago sports franchises.

As the pursuit for Shohei Ohtani enters its final stages, the Dodgers, Blue Jays, Angels, and Giants are now the frontrunners competing for the chance to secure the services of this exceptional talent. Baseball enthusiasts around the world eagerly await the outcome, as the decision of where Ohtani will sign could shape the landscape of the league for years to come.