Shohei Ohtani Takes on Recruiting Role as Dodgers Make Moves

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ICARO Media Group
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15/12/2023 23h06

The Los Angeles Dodgers have wasted no time in bolstering their roster after signing Shohei Ohtani, as the two-way superstar has taken on a recruiting role to attract new talent to the team. Ohtani's efforts have already proven successful, as sources say he sent a video to Tampa Bay Rays' Tyler Glasnow, trying to persuade him to join the Dodgers.

Dodgers president of baseball operations, Andrew Friedman, expressed how crucial it was to Ohtani that the team continues to make moves beyond his signing. And it seems Ohtani was already pitching the team's next move by reaching out to Glasnow.

In the video, Ohtani expressed his desire to share the rotation with Glasnow and also promised to hit some home runs for him. This comes as Ohtani himself will not be able to pitch in the upcoming season due to his recovery from elbow surgery.

Trade conversations between the Dodgers and the Rays had been ongoing for about a week, culminating in a deal that would see Glasnow and outfielder Manuel Margot join the Dodgers in exchange for pitcher Ryan Pepiot and outfielder Jonny DeLuca. The news of this trade broke during Ohtani's introductory press conference, adding to the excitement surrounding the team.

However, the deal has yet to be finalized. It is contingent on Glasnow signing a long-term contract extension, which is expected to see him earn an additional $110 million over the next four years on top of his $25 million salary for this season. The contract also includes an option for 2028, giving the Dodgers the choice to pick up a $30 million club option, while Glasnow can pick up a $20 million player option if the Dodgers decline it.

Ohtani's enthusiasm for championships and building a strong team around him has been evident since joining the Dodgers. He played a key role in attracting Japanese free-agent right-hander Yoshinobu Yamamoto to visit Dodger Stadium for discussions about joining the team. The Dodgers' pursuit of Yamamoto is driven by their continued focus on strengthening their pitching staff, a priority highlighted by Ohtani's own contract structure, which included deferred payments to free up funds for future signings.

With a rare "key man" clause in his contract, Ohtani has secured a special position within the organization, cementing his role as a crucial figure in shaping the team's future. The Dodgers' front office and ownership group have pledged to keep adding talent, and Ohtani has taken on the additional responsibility of being a recruiting coordinator to help achieve this goal.

Ohtani's efforts have already made a positive impact on the team, highlighting his commitment to bringing success to the Dodgers. As the Dodgers continue their pursuit of building a championship-caliber team, Ohtani's recruiting role will undoubtedly play a significant part in their future endeavors.

The views expressed in this article do not reflect the opinion of ICARO, or any of its affiliates.

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