Shohei Ohtani’s Offseason Power Move: How “ShoGM” Is Quietly Building the Dodgers’ Next Dynasty.vc

In a stunning glimpse into the Los Angeles Dodgers’ evolving dynasty, insiders revealed that Roki Sasaki’s very first phone call after signing his long-awaited MLB deal wasn’t to the front office—it was to Shohei Ohtani.

The gesture speaks volumes. Ohtani, already the Dodgers’ historic $700 million superstar, appears to be taking on a new unofficial role: the club’s most influential recruiter. Around the league, players and executives have begun using a new nickname for him—“ShoGM.”

Ohtani’s Influence: The Dodgers’ Secret Weapon

Sources close to the negotiations say Ohtani played a significant behind-the-scenes role in encouraging Sasaki to choose Los Angeles. While the Dodgers’ pitching development and global brand were major factors, Ohtani’s presence reportedly made the decision “easy.”

With Sasaki—Japan’s hardest-throwing phenom—now in Dodger blue, the team is positioning itself as the premier destination for elite Japanese talent.

Roki Sasaki Chooses Ohtani Over the Front Office

The symbolism of Sasaki calling Ohtani first cannot be overstated.
It signals:

• A deep respect for the two-way superstar
• The emergence of Ohtani as a cultural anchor for Japanese players
• The possibility that major decisions inside the Dodgers clubhouse flow through him, even if unofficially

One Dodgers insider joked, “If Ohtani wants you here, you’re basically signed.”

Could Munetaka Murakami Be Next in Ohtani’s Master Plan?

With Sasaki secured, rumors are already swirling about the Dodgers’ next move—and all eyes are on Munetaka Murakami, Japan’s premier power hitter and a potential MLB superstar in waiting.

Murakami, who crushed 50 home runs at age 22 and owns one of NPB’s most explosive offensive profiles, has long been rumored to prefer a West Coast landing spot. Now, with Ohtani actively shaping the Dodgers’ culture and helping guide incoming talent, Los Angeles may hold the inside track when Murakami is posted.

Analysts believe Ohtani’s endorsement could be the deciding factor.

The Dodgers’ Japanese Core: A New Era Begins

The potential trio of Ohtani – Sasaki – Murakami would give the Dodgers a historic core that blends generational talent, international star power, and unmatched commercial impact.

Add in Yoshinobu Yamamoto’s megadeal last offseason, and the Dodgers are constructing a powerhouse that reaches far beyond the diamond.

The Rise of “ShoGM”

While Ohtani remains fully focused on dominating as a hitter and future pitcher, it’s clear his influence now extends far beyond performance. Players listen to him. Prospects admire him. Free agents gravitate toward him.

And the Dodgers?
They benefit from the quiet empire their superstar is building—one phone call, one recruit, and one generational talent at a time.