Breaking: Dodgers Plotting Jaw-Dropping Mega-Deal to Secure Star Free-Agent Pitcher!

Jack Harris of the Los Angeles Times reports that the Dodgers are contemplating extending an offer between $250-300 million to Yoshinobu Yamamoto. Teams are expected to propose contracts to the NPB star this week, with a decision potentially by Monday.

Yamamoto’s future team and the financial aspect are the key narratives left in the offseason. The 25-year-old has emerged as the premier free agent after Shohei Ohtani’s signing. Seven teams—Dodgers, Yankees, Mets, Giants, Red Sox, Phillies, and Blue Jays—are believed to be in contention.

Recent insights suggest that Philadelphia and Toronto might have lower chances, while Boston and the Phillies met Yamamoto in Los Angeles, unlike the Yankees and Mets who held discussions in New York.

Speculation hints at the cost potentially surpassing $300 million, considering the posting fee owed to his former team, the Orix Buffaloes. An estimate of $250 million might require a posting fee of around $39.375 million, making the total commitment close to $289 million. A $300 million offer could demand a posting sum of $46.875 million, totaling around $347 million for the team.

However, these figures don’t include the luxury tax implications, which could heavily impact the Dodgers, Boston, and other suitors. The Dodgers, for instance, could face a substantial tax, likely over $17 million in year one, crossing the $277 million threshold if they sign Yamamoto.

Despite their financial capabilities and the potential offer to Yamamoto, if he signs elsewhere, the Dodgers might turn to trade options for pitching help rather than pursuing other top free agents like Blake Snell or Jordan Montgomery.