NoHICAGO — In a move that will be talked about for decades, Shohei Ohtani has officially signed a groundbreaking 10-year, $900 million contract with the Chicago Cubs, sources confirmed Saturday. The historic deal not only shatters previous MLB salary records but also marks a transformative moment for one of baseball’s most storied franchises. Ohtani, widely regarded as the most unique and talented player in modern baseball history, is now the highest-paid player in Major League Baseball — and perhaps all of professional sports.
The 29-year-old two-way sensation, who has dominated both on the mound and at the plate since arriving from Japan in 2018, chose the Cubs after an intense free-agency sweepstakes that saw nearly a dozen teams vying for his services. Ultimately, it was the Cubs’ aggressive vision for the future — along with Ohtani’s desire to bring another championship to Wrigley Field — that sealed the deal.
“This is more than just a signing,” Cubs President of Baseball Operations Jed Hoyer said during the press conference at Wrigley Field. “This is a new era for the Chicago Cubs, and it starts today with Shohei Ohtani.”
Historic Contract Details
Ohtani’s $900 million pact far surpasses the previous record set by former teammate Mike Trout, whose 12-year, $426.5 million extension with the Angels had stood as the gold standard. Ohtani’s deal includes full no-trade protection, significant performance bonuses, and opt-outs that grant him leverage after five and seven years. Sources also revealed a unique revenue-sharing agreement for merchandise sales featuring Ohtani’s likeness, further elevating the deal’s total value.
Industry insiders had long speculated Ohtani would command unprecedented figures, but few envisioned a number approaching the billion-dollar mark. It’s a monumental investment, but one the Cubs believe will pay off both on the field and at the turnstiles.
Why Chicago?
Despite rumors swirling around big-market teams like the Dodgers, Yankees, and Mets, Ohtani’s decision to choose Chicago speaks volumes about the Cubs’ resurgence as a serious contender. Over the past two seasons, the organization has reloaded its farm system, retooled its analytics department, and committed to investing in elite talent at every level.
“The passion of the fans, the history of this franchise, and the vision presented to me were all factors,” Ohtani said, speaking through his interpreter. “I want to be part of bringing another World Series to Chicago. I want to be part of something special.”
Ohtani visited the city privately two weeks ago, touring Wrigley Field and meeting with team officials. According to sources, he was “blown away” by the Cubs’ pitch, which emphasized both winning now and building a sustainable dynasty.
Impact on the Cubs
Adding Ohtani instantly elevates the Cubs into World Series contention. Even as he recovers from a recent elbow procedure that will limit his pitching workload early in the 2025 season, Ohtani’s bat alone makes him one of the most dangerous players in the league. Last season with the Angels, he hit .304 with 44 home runs and a 1.066 OPS, while also posting a 3.14 ERA on the mound across 23 starts.
The Cubs now boast a formidable lineup featuring Ohtani, Dansby Swanson, Seiya Suzuki, and emerging stars like Pete Crow-Armstrong and Matt Mervis. Pair that with a pitching staff anchored by Justin Steele and a rejuvenated bullpen, and Chicago suddenly looks poised to dominate the National League for years to come.
“This is the kind of move that redefines expectations,” Cubs manager Craig Counsell said. “Shohei is a unicorn. There’s no one like him, and now he’s ours.”
A League-Wide Shockwave
The signing sends shockwaves across the MLB landscape. Small-market teams lament what appears to be an ever-widening financial gulf, while big-market rivals must regroup after missing out on the most coveted free agent in modern history.
“Shohei Ohtani isn’t just a player. He’s a phenomenon,” said one rival GM. “The Cubs just bought themselves an identity, a contender, and a global brand ambassador all at once.”
Merchandise sales skyrocketed within minutes of the announcement, with the Cubs’ team store reporting record-breaking traffic. The new No. 17 OHTANI jerseys — a nod to Cubs legend Mark Grace — are expected to dominate sales charts in 2025.
Ohtani’s Legacy and What Lies Ahead
Already a two-time unanimous AL MVP, Ohtani’s path to Cooperstown was well underway. Now, in the heart of a city starved for another championship, he has the opportunity to etch his name alongside Cubs legends like Ernie Banks, Ron Santo, and Ryne Sandberg.
“I understand the responsibility that comes with this,” Ohtani said. “I embrace it.”
The Cubs, their fans, and the entire baseball world will now watch as the next chapter of Ohtani’s once-in-a-generation career unfolds under the iconic ivy-covered walls of Wrigley Field.
Great news, indeed.
