Despite their second-class status in their own backyard, the Angels give Ohtani access to the lucrative L.A. market, where he is expected to earn eight figures annually in endorsements. As an AL team, they have the option of using Ohtani — a right-handed pitcher/left-handed hitter — as their DH on days when he doesn’t pitch. As a first-year player in 2018, Ohtani will earn around $545,000 in salary, and won’t be eligible for free agency for six years. Because of the strict rules, MLB is expected to scrutinize the Angels’ dealings with Ohtani — as it would for any team that signed him. But at the very least, Ohtani appears determined to try it, and the Angels appear willing to let him.

Source: Washington Post December 08, 2017 19:43 UTC