NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Manager Dave Roberts confirmed Tuesday that the Dodgers recently met with free-agent superstar Shohei Ohtani at Dodger Stadium.
In stark contrast to the clandestine operation that the Ohtani courtship represented to the other clubs involved, Roberts broke silence when asked directly during his media availability at the Winter Meetings about the Dodgers’ affair with the two-way talent.
“Obviously,” Roberts told reporters at the Gaylord Opryland Resort and Convention Center, “Shohei is our top priority.”
Roberts said the meeting took place “a few days ago” and lasted about two to three hours. No other players were present at the meeting, where Roberts said the players and team “got to know each other better.”
“It was just a joy to spend some time with him,” Roberts said.
Roberts didn’t hazard a guess as to when Ohtani will make his decision, just hoping it comes soon.
The Dodgers’ 2024 salary projection assumes they will be below the luxury tax threshold. They also have a designated hitter vacancy, with the veteran JD Martinez filling the role on a one-year contract in 1923. The Dodgers did not extend Martinez’s qualifying offer.
Although there have been reports that there will be rumors about trial clubs in the Ohtani camp, Roberts expressed confidence in the Dodgers’ ability to sign Ohtani, saying the meeting “went well.” Based on conversations with the Dodgers’ medical staff, he also expressed confidence that Ohtani will eventually be able to resume his dual role once he recovers from right elbow surgery he underwent in September.
“We bet on the person,” Roberts said.
Although the Dodgers have long been viewed by many as the favorite to sign Ohtani, Roberts’ openness was surprising, especially in the wake of rampant speculation about Ohtani meeting with the Blue Jays.
“I don’t feel like lying is something I do,” he said. “I was asked a question. … Eventually it will come out.”