MLB Generation Next (Part 2)

Shohei Ohtani

Club: Los Angeles Angels

Position: Starting Pitcher/Designated Hitter

Age: 27

Verdict: Hold

After battling injuries and inconsistency for his first three Major League seasons, Ohtani is enjoying an historic 2021.  In addition to being the first player to make the All-Star team as a pitcher and hitter, he leads the American League in wins above replacement, triples, home runs and slugging percentage.  As a starting pitcher, Ohtani has won four games and posted an earned run average of 3.58.  At mid-season, Ohtani is the favorite to win the American League MVP and could make a run at hitting 70 home runs this year.  In order to get to a total of 70 home runs, Ohtani would need to have at least 55 by the end of August.  If he is anywhere close to that total, get ready for a media frenzy as he attempts to chase down Sosa, McGwire and Bonds for the season record. 

Over the last three weeks collectors have taken notice of Ohtani, and prices for his cards have shot up.  A raw copy of his 2018 Topps Chrome goes for $75, and graded versions of his rookie and prospect cards can run several hundred dollars.  For this reason, would hold on Ohtani.  If you really want to buy his cards, wait for the offseason.