The Big Question: How Much Does Ohtani Make a Year?
Shohei Ohtani isn’t just a baseball player—he’s a global phenomenon. Fans everywhere want to know: how much does Ohtani make a year? The answer is both simple and surprisingly complex. On paper, his 10-year, $700 million contract with the Los Angeles Dodgers makes him the highest-paid athlete in North American sports history. But the way the deal is structured adds a fascinating twist.
Ohtani’s $700 Million Contract Explained
In December 2023, Ohtani signed a 10-year, $700 million contract with the Dodgers. That averages out to $70 million per year, but here’s the catch:
Deferred Payments: $680 million of the deal is deferred until after the contract ends.
Annual Salary While Playing: Ohtani will receive just $2 million per year during his playing years.
Luxury Tax Impact: For MLB accounting, the Dodgers are charged about $46 million per year against the luxury tax.
This unusual structure gives the Dodgers financial flexibility while guaranteeing Ohtani every penny of the $700 million. Breaks down the math minute by minute—yes, people have calculated how much he earns per second.
Why Ohtani’s Deal Is Historic
Ohtani’s contract isn’t just about money—it’s about legacy.
Record-Breaking: It shattered the previous MLB record by more than $250 million.
Two-Way Star: Ohtani is the first player since Babe Ruth to dominate as both a pitcher and hitter.
Global Icon: His popularity in Japan and the U.S. makes him a marketing powerhouse.
Cultural Impact: In Japan, Ohtani is celebrated as a national hero, with his games drawing massive TV audiences.
Did You Know?
Ohtani’s nickname is “Shotime”, a nod to his ability to dazzle on both sides of the ball.
His contract is so large that analysts compared it to the GDP of small countries.
Despite earning “only” $2 million annually during his playing years, Ohtani’s endorsements bring in tens of millions more.
Mini Q&A: Ohtani’s Contract Questions Answered
Q: Does Ohtani really only make $2 million a year while playing?
Yes, but the deferred payments guarantee he’ll eventually collect the full $700 million.
Q: Why did Ohtani agree to defer so much money?
It gives the Dodgers more payroll flexibility to build a winning team around him.
Q: How does his deal compare to other athletes?
It’s the largest in MLB history and among the biggest in all of sports, surpassing contracts in the NFL and NBA.
A Personal Take
When I first read about Ohtani’s contract, I had to double-check the numbers. I remember sitting in a café, scrolling through the news, and laughing out loud when I saw “$700 million.” It felt unreal, like Monopoly money. But then I thought about how many kids around the world stay up late just to watch him play. In that sense, his value goes far beyond the numbers.
The Bigger Picture: Ohtani’s Legacy
Ohtani’s deal isn’t just about baseball—it’s about how sports stars are valued in a global economy. His unique two-way talent, international fan base, and marketability make him worth every dollar. For fans, the real payoff is watching history unfold every time he steps on the field.
So, how much does Ohtani make a year? Technically $2 million during his playing years, but in reality, he’s guaranteed $700 million—and perhaps something even more valuable: a place in baseball history. Would you call that a bargain or a bold bet on greatness?