Shohei Ohtani Set to Make MLB-Record Earnings in 2023 Season

Ohtani’s Off-The-Field Earnings Estimated at $35 Million

Shohei Ohtani is estimated to make an MLB-record $65 million this upcoming season. This includes his on-field earnings, which are under a one-year $30 million extension with the Angels that he signed in October, and off-the-field earnings that could reach up to $35 million. Ohtani’s marketability on both sides of the Pacific is helping his ascent to global superstardom. His lucrative deals with various companies, including Japanese cosmetics company Kose and Boston-based apparel brand New Balance, have contributed significantly to these off-the-field earnings.

Ohtani’s Next Contract Could Exceed $500 Million

According to Forbes, Ohtani is one of the top five highest-paid players for 2023, along with Max Scherzer, Aaron Judge, Justin Verlander, and his Angels teammate Mike Trout. Winning the World Baseball Classic with Japan and being named tournament MVP after batting .435 and pitching to a 1.86 ERA only added to his stardom. Ohtani is scheduled to make his second straight Opening Day start for the Angels in Oakland. In 2022, he had career-highs on the mound with 15 wins, a 2.33 ERA, 28 starts, 166.0 innings pitched, and 219 strikeouts.

His next contract is estimated to be over $500 million and could potentially surpass Trout’s record-setting contract. Despite putting together the best season in 2021 and 2022, Ohtani’s peak potential is still not reached. His offensive game should improve even if his power remains in the 40-homer range due to bigger bases and a shift ban.

Ohtani Could Be Traded If Angels Don’t Contend for a Playoff Spot

There is a possibility that Ohtani could be traded if the Angels do not contend for a playoff spot. However, his playoff chances with the Angels in 2023 are better than originally expected with a deep team at the forefront of a potentially elite starting rotation and offense. Ohtani’s star power has never been greater as he is the 2021 AL MVP and the highest-paid player in baseball.

Winning Is Ohtani’s Sole Focus

Winning is Ohtani’s sole focus, and the Angels have not made the playoffs since the 2014 season. He believes that the Angels want to win as much as he does. Ohtani has proven he can handle pressure in high-leverage spots as a hitter and pitcher. His year in baseball is one to watch as it has only just begun.

Ohtani Compared To NBA Signature Shoe Athlete

Ohtani’s earning power is compared to that of an NBA signature shoe athlete. He has 13 partnerships, including with multiple companies in Japan. The player with the next-highest off-the-field earnings is Aaron Judge, who will make an estimated $4.5 million in 2023. Ohtani’s earnings for the 2023 season lead the pack, and they will only continue to increase.

In conclusion, Shohei Ohtani’s projected earnings for the 2023 MLB season are record-breaking and signify his ascent to global superstardom. His next contract could be even more significant, and his potential to improve both offensively and defensively makes him one of baseball’s most exciting players. Only time will tell what kind of impact he will make on the game of baseball both on and off the field.

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