Could Shohei Ohtani be making his way north to Toronto in the upcoming season?
While the initial day of the MLB winter meetings proved uneventful, there are signs that the dynamic might change soon. Indirect indicators suggest that conversations between Shohei Ohtani, a standout in the world of baseball and a major offseason attraction, and the Blue Jays might be progressing.
RELATED: Updated Odds For Shohei Ohtani Free Agency Sweepstakes
Speculation around Ohtani’s potential move to Toronto has been circulating for weeks, although both parties have remained discreet about their discussions. A noteworthy development emerged on Monday, as Blue Jays GM Ross Atkins reportedly altered his scheduled in-person media appearance to a virtual Zoom session, choosing not to disclose his location to reporters. Additionally, there were no indications that Ohtani’s agent, Nez Balelo, was present in Nashville on that Monday.
Meanwhile, Blue Jays manager John Schneider, originally slated for a media address on Monday, had his session rescheduled to Tuesday, a change made on Friday according to a reliable source. However, it remains unclear whether Atkins’s undisclosed location and Schneider’s adjusted schedule are connected. Requests for comments from Atkins, Balelo, and the team spokesperson went unanswered.
Of course the internet went nuts over these revelations:
The Blue Jays have achieved postseason appearances in three of the last four years, yet they faced first-round eliminations each time.
Shohei Ohtani, recognized as one of the most gifted players in the history of the sport, brings a unique blend of hitting and pitching prowess. If the Blue Jays were to secure his services, it could significantly elevate their visibility on the international stage. The unfolding developments in this situation are eagerly awaited but as of now the odds have remained the same for the most part.