Disagreement on NPB Posting System May Keep Two-Way Phenom Otani in Japan

Even if you’re not as borderline-obsessed with the Shohei Otani saga as I am, you’ve probably heard at least a little bit about it by now. Like how MLB’s new collective bargaining agreement severely hampers his earning power if he comes over in the next two years and how he’s reportedly unconcerned with said limitations. Maybe you’ve even followed as we explained how the Cubs are very much in the hunt for Otani despite being hamstrung by bonus-pool restrictions.

While I was very dubious at the outset, reports continued to promote the idea that Japan’s version of Babe Ruth really wanted to come Stateside for 2018. Ah, but the decision isn’t entirely his to make. While it was merely a bullet…