Other teams have players from that country but they think different in LA. Shohei Ohtani continued his dominate of the baseball world in the 2024 season, solidifying his reputation as one of the most extraordinary players in MLB history. For the Los Angeles Dodgers, Ohtani has been a threat powerhouse helping the team to win a World Series.
The team from Southern California has treated the player the right way not only because of his contract, but also because he is valued as a person and a baseball player. That is why he’s agent takes it under consideration.
The derisory amount that the winner of the Shohei Ohtani impersonator contest took home
Shohei Ohtani’s agent, Nez Balelo, recently highlighted how the Los Angeles Dodgers stood out as the only team to truly recognize and appreciate Ohtani’s multifaceted value. This means a lot for the Japanese star.
Shohei Ohtani celebrates with Dodgers fans! pic.twitter.com/VBFkPhL4ks
— MLB (@MLB) November 1, 2024
An agent that also understands
Nez Balelo emphasized that the Dodgers saw beyond Ohtani’s extraordinary on-field talents, understanding the significant off-field opportunities he brings, such as attracting sponsors and driving merchandise sales.
“I wanted organizations to understand and appreciate Shohei’s real value. For teams to justify that amount of money to sign him, you have to really capitalize on the off-the-field opportunities, his ability to attract sponsors and brands,” said Balelo in an interview with USA Today.
“And there’s a whole frenzy of memorabilia and novelty items. You had to quantify that as value.” This comprehensive vision led to Ohtani’s historic $700 million contract with the Dodgers.
Balelo’s comments underscore the strategic and far-sighted approach the Dodgers took in securing one of baseball’s most dynamic and marketable players, reinforcing their commitment to building both a formidable team and a powerful brand presence.