Shohei Ohtani’s Contract Includes ‘Key Man’ Clause Tied to Dodgers Ownership

Shohei Ohtani’s massive 10‑year, $700 million contract with the Los Angeles Dodgers features a unique key‑man clause. The provision allows the Japanese star to terminate the agreement if controlling owner Mark Walter ceases to be the team’s principal owner.

It also activates if Dodgers President of Baseball Operations Andrew Friedman departs from the organization. This clause is unusual in Major League Baseball contracts and gives Ohtani leverage over the franchise’s leadership.

The clause was highlighted after recent speculation about potential ownership changes within the Dodgers. While the Dodgers remain under Walter’s control, the clause stays dormant.

Should either condition be met, Ohtani would have the contractual right to walk away from the deal.