The Los Angeles Dodgers are formally introducing Shohei Ohtani during a press conference at Dodger Stadium on Thursday, beginning at 3 p.m. PT. Ohtani’s first public comments and appearances since signing with the Dodgers figures to draw worldwide attention, specifically in Japan, where it begins at 8 a.m.
Dodgers president of baseball operations Andrew Friedman is going to join Ohtani on stage from the center field plaza at Dodger Stadium. Members from the Dodgers’ ownership group and additional front office personnel are expected to be on hand as well.
Ohtani signed a record-breaking 10-year, $700 million contract with the Dodgers to cap off a clandestine free agency process. His deal includes a staggering $680 million in deferred salary in exchange for assurances from the Dodgers that the financial flexibility would be utilized to fill out the roster.
Moreover, Ohtani’s contract includes a full no-trade clause and right to opt out of the deal if principle owner Mark Walter or Friedman are removed from their current roles.
San Francisco Giants president of baseball operations Farhan Zaidi revealed his team presented Ohtani with a contract offer that was identical financially, or very similar, and that the two-way star merely preferred to sign with the Dodgers instead.
The Chicago Cubs, Los Angeles Angels and Toronto Blue Jays were reported finalists for Ohtani as well.
How to watch Shohei Ohtani press conference
A live stream of Ohtani’s press conference at Dodger Stadium is viewable in the video above.
SportsNet LA is also carrying it in its entirety, MLB Network is on hand at Dodger Stadium as well for national coverage, and ESPN’s “SportsCenter” will feature it as well.
AM 570 L.A. Sports Radio is broadcasting the Ohtani press conference for fans who may be on the move.
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