Contributed by Conner Barnett

After joining the Los Angeles Angels in 2018, Shohei Ohtani quickly rose to stardom by posting All-Star caliber seasons both as a pitcher and hitter. Arguably the best player in the world, Ohtani has totaled 124 home runs, 290 RBI’s, and 57 stolen bases the past 3 seasons, all while showcasing improved hitting averages each year. On the mound he’s been just as dominant over that time span, going 34-16 in his starts, striking out nearly 550 batters, and adding consistently strong ERA’s below 3.19 each season. Unfortunately for Ohtani, August 23rd would be the last game he was able to pitch for the 2023 season, as he tore his right ulnar collateral ligament. As a result, Ohtani’s injury and early exit led to an overall depression in his card market, making the weeks leading up to his decision to sign with the Los Angeles Dodgers a fantastic time to buy Ohtani with the idea of selling upon the news of his next destination.