Dodgers favored to be next Ohtani landing spot

Tony Reyes
By , Updated on: Dec 5, 2023 12:00 AM
Mookie Betts talking to Ohtani during a matchup

Shohei Ohtani, the sought-after MLB free agent, is set to make a significant impact with a new team after emerging as a unicorn in the market.

Amid rumors of a potential trade at the deadline, Ohtani is now exploring his options, and the latest odds provide insights into which team may secure this offseason's most coveted player.

Before continuing, please check out ourĀ MLB Betting Guide, which will help you prepare for anyĀ MLB propsĀ you may be interested in.

Expressing a desire to play for a contender and pursue a World Series win, Ohtani, who declined the Los Angeles Angels' qualifying offer, is evaluating potential suitors.

Ohtani Next Team Odds

Ohtani Next TeamBetOnlineBovadaBetUS
Dodgers-175-175-175
Cubs+250+250+250
Braves+500+500+500
Blue Jays+800+800+800

The Los Angeles Dodgers are currently the frontrunners, but teams like the Toronto Blue Jays, Chicago Cubs, and others are also actively in contention.

At 29 years old, Ohtani enters free agency with the potential to command a substantial, long-term contract.

Despite the Angels' challenges, his remarkable performance has garnered accolades, including AL Rookie of the Year in 2018 and two AL MVP awards.

Ohtani boasts an impressive .274/.366/.556 batting line with 171 home runs and 437 RBI, coupled with a pitching record of 38-19, a 3.01 ERA, and 608 strikeouts in 86 starts.

While Ohtani underwent elbow surgery, necessitating a hiatus from pitching in 2024, his resilience has been evident, even during previous recovery periods.

Despite concern about his return post-surgery, there are rumors of a lucrative 12-year, $528-million contract, reflecting Ohtani's unmatched potential and the anticipation of a competitive bidding war among interested teams.

Los Angeles Dodgers

The Los Angeles Dodgers have emerged as the frontrunners with odds at -175, signaling a strong likelihood of securing Shohei Ohtani.

Picture Ohtani's formidable bat alongside Mookie Betts and Freddie Freeman, forming a powerhouse trio for the foreseeable future.

The Dodgers strategically refrained from extending a qualifying offer to J.D. Martinez, emphasizing their targeted pursuit of Ohtani.

While the Dodgers face a notable gap in their rotation, the addition of Ohtani holds the potential to fortify this aspect of the roster.

In 2024, envisioning Ohtani in the lineup positions the Dodgers as the most formidable offensive force in the league, surpassing even the potency of Atlanta's lineup.

Financially robust, the Dodgers have a track record of significant investments, exemplified by lucrative deals for Betts and Freeman.

Their discerning approach, allowing players like Trea Turner and Corey Seager to explore free agency, underscores a commitment to strategic decision-making.

While avoiding impulsive moves, signing Ohtani aligns with the Dodgers' penchant for calculated and impactful acquisitions.

Known for their proficiency in nurturing talent from within, the Dodgers are likely to continue cultivating internal growth.

This approach and a potential commitment to Ohtani, Betts, and Freeman positions the Dodgers to maintain a competitive and well-rounded roster.

Los Angeles Dodgers To sign Ohtani
BetOnline
-175

Chicago Cubs

Just a few weeks ago, the Cubs were listed at +2,100 odds to sign Ohtani, but this line swiftly disappeared as Chicago emerged as a serious contender for the star.

The Cubs recently hired Craig Counsell as their new manager, committing $8 million annually to his role. This managerial investment suggests a willingness to allocate funds to bolster on-field talent.

With notable free agents like Cody Bellinger and Marcus Stroman, the Cubs find themselves in a position to address gaps in their roster.

The team also boasts a mix of promising young talent, with some players already contributing at the major-league level (such as Pete Crow-Armstrong, Justin Steele, Nico Hoerner) and others on the cusp of breaking through (including Kevin Alcantara and Owen Caissie).

Chicago Cubs To sign Ohtani
BetOnline
+250

We want to ensure you maximize theĀ best sign-up bonusesĀ and currentĀ promotions. TheseĀ bonusesĀ can significantly increase yourĀ bankroll, allowing you to bet withĀ house money!

Atlanta Braves

According to MLB Network's Jon Morosi on Monday, the Atlanta Braves, who claimed the title of baseball's best regular-season team in 2023, remain active suitors for Ohtani.

The Braves boast considerable pitching depth, making them potentially well-positioned to weather a year-long wait for Ohtani.

Their pitching needs are less urgent compared to teams like the Dodgers.

Adding Ohtani's bat to a lineup already featuring Ronald Acuna Jr., Austin Riley, Matt Olson, and others could elevate an already formidable offense to near-unstoppable levels.

However, as Ohtani is anticipated to announce his decision around or shortly after the Winter Meetings, which commenced on December 3, market responses are likely imminent.

Atlanta Braves To sign Ohtani
BetOnline
+500

Toronto Blue Jays

The Toronto Blue Jays have surprisingly emerged as strong contenders to sign Ohtani in recent weeks, generating heightened speculation around the team.

This surge in buzz aligns with the Blue Jays' active pursuit of impactful moves, including potential interest in acquiring outfielder Juan Soto from the San Diego Padres via trade.

This strategic approach signals Toronto's clear intent to impact the league substantially. The Blue Jays boast a core recognized as a contender for the World Series.

Their robust rotation positions them well to navigate a season where Ohtani may focus on hitting before assuming the role of a frontline starting pitcher.

Additionally, the urgency is palpable, considering the impending free agency of stars Vlad Guerrero Jr. and Bo Bichette after the 2025 season, with no indication of contract extensions in the works.

The looming question for the Blue Jays revolves around how much they are willing to invest in a potential decade-long deal with Ohtani.

Such a commitment would undoubtedly have implications for subsequent extension negotiations with the talented young duo of Guerrero Jr. and Bichette.

Balancing the pursuit of immediate success with long-term planning will be a critical decision for the Blue Jays' front office.

Toronto Blue Jays To sign Ohtani
BetOnline
+800

Check ourĀ top sportsbook reviewsĀ for the best odds on your favoriteĀ MLB gamesĀ before placing your bets.

  • EXCLUSIVE BONUS
    Bovada
    4.2/5
    50% bonus up to $250
    Copy Promocode BTCSWB750
    Play Now

    T&C apply, 18+, Play responsibly

  • BetOnline
    3.9/5
    50% bonus up to $1000
    Copy Promocode BET1000
    Play Now

    T&C apply, 18+, Play responsibly

  • EXCLUSIVE BONUS
    BetUS
    4.1/5
    125% up to $2,500
    Copy Promocode Join125
    Play Now

    T&C apply, 18+, Play responsibly

  • Xbet
    50% up to $500
    Copy Promocode XBWELCOME50
    Play Now

    T&C apply, 18+, Play responsibly

  • BetNow
    4.1/5
    100% up to $1,000
    Copy Promocode BN150
    Play Now

    T&C apply, 18+, Play responsibly

  • MyBookie
    100% bonus up to $1000
    Copy Promocode MB100
    Play Now

    T&C apply, 18+, Play responsibly

  • Bookmaker
    100% up to $400
    No Code Needed
    Play Now

    T&C apply, 18+, Play responsibly

  • Sportsbetting
    3.6/5
    50% up to $1000
    No Code Needed
    Play Now

    T&C apply, 18+, Play responsibly

  • EveryGame
    3.8/5
    $500 Sign Up Bonus
    Copy Promocode WELCOME500
    Play Now

    T&C apply, 18+, Play responsibly

  • BetNow
    4.3/5
    100% up to $450
    No Code Needed
    Play Now

    T&C apply, 18+, Play responsibly

Meet the author

Tony Reyes

With years of experience as an analyst, Tony brings an expert voice to picks and predictions. His passion for sports betting is evident in his coverage, which not only informs and entertains but also shares his love for the game. When he's not watching or covering t...

Online Sports Betting may receive compensation if you sign up through our links. Rest assured, we avoid biases and provide honest opinions on sportsbooks. Read our affiliate disclosure here.