Report: Otani looking into hiring MLB agent
Japanese dual sensation Shohei Otani has begun interviewing prospective major-league representatives in preparation for his transfer from the Japan Pacific League, according to Jon Heyman of FanRag Sports.
It's been reported that Otani intends to play in the majors in 2018, though nothing has been made official. Agents interested in representing Otani have flown to Japan in recent weeks, and one person with knowledge of the situation said that a decision should come down soon.
Unsurprisingly, the Scott Boras Corporation is reported to be in the mix and is considered an early favorite among several notable sports agencies. Because Otani is planning on transferring before his 25th birthday, he can only sign with a team on a minor-league deal due to the CBA's international spending rule.
The New York Yankees and Boston Red Sox have reportedly been allocated the most international bonus pool money - approximately $8 million, minus what has already been used on other international free agents.
As a hitter this year in the JPL, Otani has slashed .333/.403/.554 across 59 games. He's only made four starts as a pitcher (4.96 ERA with 19 strikeouts) but has performed better as of late with MLB scouts in attendance.