Ohtani’s Agent Reveals Contract Details at Sportico Conference

INGLEWOOD, Calif. (AP) — Shohei Ohtani‘s agent, Nez Balelo, revealed details about the star player’s contract negotiations on Thursday during Sportico‘s Invest West conference. Balelo explained that Ohtani, a two-way superstar, chose not to pursue a longer 15-year contract, aiming to maintain his performance without risking a decline in ability.

Balelo’s comments came at the newly opened Intuit Dome, home of the NBA’s Los Angeles Clippers, where industry leaders gathered to discuss sports and finance. In December 2023, Ohtani signed a groundbreaking 10-year deal valued at $700 million with the Los Angeles Dodgers, marking the largest contract in professional sports at the time.

Now, Ohtani is set for another huge payday, having agreed to a 15-year contract worth $765 million with the team. “We wouldn’t do anything different,” Balelo said, noting Ohtani’s successful debut season that included his third MVP award and a World Series title. He emphasized that Ohtani always prioritizes his competitive edge, “He just didn’t want the end of his storybook career to tail off,” Balelo added.

The new contract includes $680 million in deferred payments, adjusting its net present value under Major League Baseball’s luxury-tax system to around $461 million. With the deal ending in 2033, Ohtani will be 38 years old.

Balelo also discussed the overwhelming media speculation surrounding Ohtani’s signings. Tensions peaked when rumors spread about Ohtani reportedly flying to Toronto to sign with the Blue Jays. “That was reckless reporting,” Balelo remarked, clarifying that they were not traveling to Toronto.

Ohtani has ambitions to win championships while continuing as a two-way player. “The Dodgers gave us their word that’s what they were going to do,” Balelo said about the team’s commitment to build a competitive roster.

As baseball’s top endorser, Ohtani’s off-field earnings jumped from $65 million in 2024 to $100 million in 2025. Balelo confirmed that Ohtani partners with over 20 brands, ensuring they align with his personal beliefs and lifestyle. “He takes that very, very serious, and everything really becomes secondary other than his family,” Balelo said.

Balelo has been a key figure in Ohtani’s career since recognizing the star’s potential in high school in Japan. Reflecting on their journey, he recognized the challenges but also the success they achieved together.