The view is emerging that Ohtani Shohei (大谷翔平)'s presence and the “key-man clause” included in his contract could affect future ownership developments involving the Dodgers. While reports have emerged of the Lakers being sold, there is also information that the sale of the Dodgers has been denied.
Reports by U.S. media that Dodgers owner Mark Walter (マーク・ウォルター) had acquired the Lakers have reignited market interest in the potential sale of the franchise. However, following those reports, the sale of the Dodgers has reportedly been denied.
CBS Sports cited the presence of Ohtani Shohei (大谷翔平) as a reason the Dodgers would not be sold. Ohtani's contract includes a “key-man clause,” and he is reportedly able to terminate the contract and become a free agent if Walter or a Dodgers executive leaves.
Ohtani has contributed to the franchise's ability to secure sponsorship agreements through his performance to date, and his presence is viewed as a factor affecting the value of the franchise itself. Forbes estimates the franchise's value at approximately $7.8 billion as of 2026.
While some believe the Dodgers would be half as attractive to Japanese companies without Ohtani, it has also been reported that the decision to sell would depend on the new owner's perception.