Shohei Ohtani has been the media’s darling for a while now. Every step the phenomenon takes turns into a headline. Now, with his free agency approaching, the attention on Ohtani seems to have reached a crescendo. With many teams vying for a piece of the ‘Shotime’, it is only a matter of time to find out who prevails in the race.

The list of potential destinations for the 29-year-old includes the likes of the LA Dodgers, the Texas Rangers, the Boston Red Sox, the New York Mets, and the San Francisco Giants, to name a few. Among these, another team seems to have emerged.

The Cubs’ interest in Ohtani

As per the reports of Bob Nightengale of USA Today, the serious contender in the sweepstakes of Shotime’s free agency is none other than the Chicago Cubs. After a string of what could only be considered disappointing seasons, the Baby Bears are looking for a change in fortune. And if they have to reach the top of their division and the NL, what better addition to their squad than the two-way player?

After Marcus Stroman opted out of a deal, many considered that the Cubs would re-sign the talented Cody Bellinger from their ranks. However, now it appears the Cubs are aiming for a long-term prospect and the Japanese star seems to be a good fit in the Windy City.

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Owing to an elbow injury and the subsequent Tommy John surgery, Ohtani’s pitching career is in doubt. While he is expected to make a full recovery to the plate by the next season, his prospects on the mound are in question.

As the reports suggest, the Oshu native will only be able to pitch in the 2025 season. Although the atmosphere might be one of concern, no team would want to miss out on a talent like Ohtani, so a record deal above $400 million is still on the paper. Among the suitors, the Cubbies have already started making the moves.

The Cubs are already in action

The Chicago Cubs seem to already be in rebuild mode. As reports suggest, just recently they fired manager David Ross in favor of hiring Craig Counsell. The 5-year deal, reportedly worth 40 million dollars, is monumental, and with it, the Cubs might have signaled their intentions.

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Despite injury concerns, the Japanese phenom is sure to command a record deal this time around. Meanwhile, the Cubs would want to change things and reach their first postseason since 2020. With the competition appearing stiff, it will be interesting to see which way the tides turn and whose fortunes go for a toss.

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