Dodgers' Mark Walter on Shohei Ohtani: 'We Owed Him'

Dodgers President Mark Walter Reflects on Ohtani's Deferred Salary

In a recent interview with the Los Angeles Times, Dodgers President Mark Walter discussed the team's decision to allow Shohei Ohtani to defer a portion of his salary in his contract. Walter stated that the Dodgers "owed" Ohtani for his willingness to sign a below-market deal with the team in 2018.

Background on Ohtani's Contract

When Ohtani signed with the Dodgers in December 2017, he agreed to a two-year, $8.5 million contract. However, the deal included a provision that allowed Ohtani to defer up to $3 million of his salary until after his contract expired.

This provision was significant because it allowed Ohtani to reduce his tax liability in the United States. Ohtani is a Japanese citizen, and he would have been subject to a higher tax rate if he had received his full salary in 2018.

Why the Dodgers Agreed to the Deferral

Walter explained that the Dodgers were willing to agree to the deferral because they believed in Ohtani's potential. The team was impressed with Ohtani's performance in Japan, and they believed that he could be a valuable asset to the team.

Walter also said that the Dodgers were grateful for Ohtani's willingness to sign with the team below-market value. Ohtani had several other offers from Major League Baseball teams, but he chose to sign with the Dodgers because he believed in the team's culture and its commitment to winning.

Ohtani's Performance with the Dodgers

Since joining the Dodgers, Ohtani has been one of the most dominant players in Major League Baseball. He has been a two-time All-Star, and he won the American League Rookie of the Year Award in 2018.

Ohtani is a unique player who can both pitch and hit at a high level. He is one of the few players in MLB history to hit 40 home runs and steal 20 bases in the same season.

The Dodgers' Outlook for 2023

The Dodgers are one of the favorites to win the World Series in 2023. The team has a strong lineup, a deep pitching staff, and a proven track record of success.

Ohtani is a key part of the Dodgers' success. He is a versatile player who can make a difference in the game in a variety of ways. The Dodgers are confident that Ohtani will continue to be a key part of their team's success in 2023.