Dodgers officially sign Ohtani: 'Once-in-a-generation talent'

The biggest free-agent signing in sports history is complete.

The Los Angeles Dodgers signed two-time American League MVP Shohei Ohtani to a 10-year contract on Monday, the team announced.

"On behalf of the L.A. Dodgers and our fans everywhere, we welcome Shohei Ohtani to the Dodgers, the home of Jackie Robinson, Sandy Koufax and Hideo Nomo, three of the sport's most legendary and pathbreaking players," Dodgers chairman Mark Walter said in a statement. "We congratulate him on his historic contract with out storied franchise.

"Shohei is a once-in-a-generation talent and one of the most exciting professional athletes in the world. Our players, staff, management, and ownership look forward to working together with Shohei to help the Dodgers continue to add, improve, and strive for excellence on the field."

The Dodgers didn't announce the financials of the deal, but it's reportedly worth $700 million. However, $680 million of the 29-year-old's pact will be deferred, according to reports.

"Dodger fans, thank you for welcoming me to your team," Ohtani said in a statement. "I can say 100% that you, the Dodger organization, and I share the same goal - to bring World Series parades to the streets of Los Angeles."

Ohtani was involved in one of the most intriguing free-agent chases in baseball history, with the Dodgers acquiring him over other interested parties such as the Chicago Cubs, Los Angeles Angels, San Francisco Giants, and Toronto Blue Jays.

The two-way sensation won the second unanimous MVP of his career in 2023 after hitting .304/.412/.654 with a league-leading 44 home runs, 95 RBIs, and 20 steals as a hitter. He also posted a 10-5 record with a 3.14 ERA and 11.4 K/9 as a pitcher.