Even if Los Angeles Dodgers owner Mark Walter were to sell the team, star player Shohei Ohtani is unlikely to exercise a "key-man clause" in his contract that would allow him to opt out, a source with knowledge of the situation confirmed.
Ohtani included the clause in his 10-year, $700 million contract signed before the 2024 season. It permits him to leave the franchise if either Walter or president of baseball operations Andrew Friedman departs during his tenure.
The speculation regarding Ohtani's clause arose following Walter's recent decision to sell the Lakers, a move that Dodgers president Stan Kasten insisted would not affect the baseball club or signal Walter's intent to sell the Dodgers.
However, reports of Walter seeking to raise capital to repay loans under federal investigation have fueled speculation about a potential sale of the baseball team. Despite these circumstances, Ohtani has reportedly shown no inclination to leave the Dodgers.
Since joining the team, Ohtani has achieved significant success, including winning two MVP awards and two World Series, and accomplishing the first 50-50 season in Major League Baseball history. His decision to defer $680 million of his contract has also enabled the team to build a roster with considerable talent.
While circumstances can change, especially with ongoing questions surrounding Walter, Ohtani appears content in Los Angeles, making the exercise of his opt-out clause improbable, according to the source.