Shohei Ohtani is one of the best players of this generation. He makes it hard to exaggerate just how incredible he is with an elite pitching matched with some elite hitting. Ohtani is truly one of one.
As the trade deadline looms, the speculation will continue to build around his future. While his services would only be guaranteed for the next two months, Ohtani would be an immediate boon to any team in need and could elevate a team from the fringe into a contender status.
Should the Braves be in on the Shohei Ohtani sweepstakes?
While the two-way superstar would be a fantastic addition to the roster here in Atlanta, John Fricke just doesn't see it as a realistic option.
"There are two reasons why Shohei [Ohtani] is not coming here," John said. "Do you really think that the Braves want to pay Shohei Ohtani? [He is going to command] 10 years for $500 million. That's the number one reason why he isn't coming here. The second reason is [Angels owner] Arte Moreno."
The Angels owner would likely make demands that would make a fan's jaw drop, but that's the price of doing business. John wondered who the Braves would likely need to include in order to add Ohtani to this roster.
"[If I am Arte Moreno], I want Austin Riley, I want Kyle Wright, AJ Smith-Shawver, I want Bradnon Shewmake, and I want a number one pick," John said. "That's what he would ask for!"
Some team will be desperate enough to make this deal happen, but it probably shouldn't be the Braves.