Shohei Ohtani could leave the Dodgers because of a clause involving key figures within the team

Shohei Ohtani is enjoying another strong stretch with the Los Angeles Dodgers , but a recent move and growing speculation have raised questions about the possibility of his eventual departure from the team.

What sparked the speculation?

It all began with Mark Walter, the Dodgers’ owner, who recently sold his majority stake in the Los Angeles Lakers . The move raised questions about his other sports ventures and put the spotlight on a little-known condition in the Japanese star’s contract.

It involves the so-called “Key Man” clause, a provision that could allow Ohtani to reconsider his future with the Dodgers.

What does Shohei Ohtani’s clause say?

Ohtani’s contract includes a condition that allows him to leave the Dodgers if Mark Walter or Andrew Friedman are no longer in charge of the franchise , as both have been key figures in bringing him to Los Angeles and have continued to support his development with the team.

However, there is an important restriction: if Ohtani chooses to exercise the clause, his departure would not be immediate , as it could only take effect at the end of the season in which the change occurs.

Ohtani prepares to return to the mound

While questions surrounding his future are emerging off the field, Ohtani’s story continues to move forward on it.

Shohei Ohtani is expected to pitch during the Dodgers’ next homestand, scheduled for September 1 through 9, 2026 , although the exact date of his appearance has not yet been determined.

The Japanese star made his most recent pitching appearance on July 3 before left knee discomfort forced him to temporarily halt his work from the mound . At that point, he had recorded 8 wins, 2 losses and a 1.79 ERA, maintaining an impressive level of performance.

Now, all eyes are on his return to the mound and on seeing him resume a role he had been forced to put on hold for several weeks.