It would have been challenging for the Miami Marlins to convince two-way Japanese star Shohei Ohtani to sign with them. Other MLB teams could offer him a richer signing bonus, a clearer path to postseason contention, a larger fan base and a more recognizable brand.
However, we can’t pretend to understand exactly what Ohtani wants. He is an unprecedented free-agent case, with talent worthy of a nine-figure contract, but without the leverage to negotiate a big payday. There are strict constraints placed on the 23-year-old by the latest collective bargaining agreement. The most significant expense is a $20 million release fee owed to the Hokkaido Nippon Ham Fighters (his former team) once he finalizes an MLB deal.