Kaylah Walton
Touted by the media and sponsors as an unparalleled talent, Shohei Ohtani has landed the largest sports contract in history. Prior to this achievement, the Japanese player’s net worth was relatively modest.
Reports from sources like SportsKeeda and ClutchPoints indicate that Ohtani’s net worth was around $50 million before his significant deal with the Los Angeles Dodgers.
This amount included a one-year, $30 million contract he signed in 2022 with the Los Angeles Angels and endorsements totaling approximately $35 million, making him the highest earner in baseball off the field.
However, on December 9, 2023, Ohtani finalized a 10-year, $700 million contract with the Dodgers, surpassing the previous Major League record of $426.5 million over 12 years held by Mike Trout since 2019.
This contract outstrips the $450 million Patrick Mahomes is set to earn with the Kansas City Chiefs in the NFL over a decade.
Understanding the Shohei Ohtani Contract
The structure of Ohtani’s groundbreaking contract is complex. He will not receive $70 million annually for 10 years directly. Instead, the deal’s uniqueness lies in its payout method, as Ohtani has opted to defer $680 million of the total.
He will earn $2 million per year until 2034, followed by $68 million every year for the next decade, without any interest applied. Additionally, his earnings from endorsements will contribute significantly beyond the Dodgers contract.
It is speculated that Ohtani’s total income could soar up to $100 million annually after his Dodgers contract, thanks to partnerships with brands such as New Balance, Fanatics, Topps, along with numerous enterprises in Japan.
Ohtani’s Health as a Key Consideration
Despite his tremendous sporting and financial achievements, Shohei faces one main concern: his health.
Given his history of injuries, it is estimated he was active in just 72% of the games during his six-year tenure with the Angels.
When fit, he excels, having achieved feats like becoming the first to record 54 home runs and 59 stolen bases in a single season. He did, however, sustain an injury during game 2 of the World Series against the Yankees.
At 30 years old, Ohtani is currently at the height of his career. Baseball players typically enjoy lengthy professional careers, so it is likely he will stay active long enough to fulfill his contract with the Dodgers.
