The race to acquire the hottest property in the MLB has started and clubs are expected to top last season’s $3.53 billion spending.
Nearly one sixth of that amount could come in one player alone with superstar Shohei Ohtani expected to go for between $500 and 600 million.
There has been conjecture about the revenue from local media rights packages but with the MLB showing its best attendance year since 2017.
An example of the spending is that of the Brewers, a mod sized spender, doling out $82 million for 19-year-old Jackson Chourio in an eight deal, which is a record for a player year to make his MLB debut. The amount could climb to $142 million depending on various causes and showing an early indicator on the price market as this week’s Winters Meeting kicked off yesterday.
Ohtani, a pitcher and designated hitter has become a free agent after five successful years at the LA Angels.
The three time All Star and two time AL MVP, has been in red hot form.
The Japanese sensation is not only sensational with bat in hand and on the mound, but he puts bums on seats and sells jerseys.
Last season he finished first in the league’s leader in jersey sales.
The sale of jerseys alone could account for a chunk of revenue clawed back from a purchasing club.
