MLB exec names two teams as 'favorites' to land Shohei Ohtani

Barring an unlikely contract extension with the Los Angeles Angels, two-way phenom Shohei Ohtani is a season away from being potentially the most sought-after free agent in baseball history. 

While Ohtani will likely have several suitors if he hits the free-agent market, an MLB executive recently told the Jon Heyman of the New York Post that National League teams, the Los Angeles Dodgers and New York Mets, have emerged as "favorites" for the Japanese star. 

Hearing that the Dodgers and free-spending Mets will be first in line for Ohtani doesn't come as much of a surprise. However, as Heyman points out, Ohtani was seemingly partial to options on the West Coast before joining the majors ahead of the 2018 season, perhaps giving the edge to the Dodgers. 

While being courted five years ago, Ohtani chose the Angels over several teams, including the New York Yankees. At the time, Ohtani said he couldn't "envision" himself in New York. While a big city may not entice Ohtani, according to Heyman, his thoughts on playing in New York may have changed. 

The 28-year-old is in line for a lucrative payday regardless of where he ends up. Initially thought to command $500 million in free agency, recent reports indicate that Ohtani may break the bank and potentially sign for a deal near or above the $600 million mark. 

On the field, Ohtani is helping his own cause early on. At the plate, the two-time All-Star has three home runs and eight RBI, slashing .300/.404/.575 over 11 games. Meanwhile, on the mound, Ohtani has been his dominant self. Through three starts, Ohtani is 2-0, allowing only one earned run while striking out 24 over 19 innings.