Which MLB teams should be all-in on Shohei Ohtani?

2. Texas Rangers

The Rangers are the only team with a full international bonus pool to throw Ohtani’s way. Assuming they want to offer him the entire sum available, Texas is one of the few teams with a farm system solid enough to absorb a year without adding to their depth with Latin American talent. The Rangers have always excelled at making the most of the international market, and that could help them land Ohtani.

Texas should be an intriguing potential destination for Ohtani, given the team’s connection to Yu Darvish, who also pitched for the Nippon Ham Fighters before being posted. Obviously, Ohtani won’t base his entire decision around pitching for the same team as Darvish, but any little bit helps in what equates to a five-star recruiting process. The Rangers will still have to sell their opportunity to Ohtani if they meet the posting fee.

First baseman/DH Mike Napoli is a free agent again this winter, leaving the Rangers with a potential opening at DH for Ohtani if they move Joey Gallo into a full-time role at first base. Gallo played first base, third base and outfield last season. He isn’t particularly skilled defensively at any position, but Gallo can make a competent first baseman.

With the ability to offer the most money and an organization set up to continue contending for the near future, the Rangers should make an attractive landing spot for the Japanese phenom. Texas might be a culture shock for Ohtani, but if Darvish could handle it, so can he.