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Shohei Otani's Muddied Path to MLB Leaves Worldwide Megastar's Dream in Flux

Shohei Otani is the most exciting player who might not sign an MLB contract this winter.

To be fair, Otani is arguably the most exciting available player, period. The 23-year-old Japanese stud is a legitimate two-way talent, a gifted pitcher and hitter with the tools to improve a big league roster immeasurably and revolutionize the game.

"He has that allure, it grabs your attention," Seattle Mariners general manager Jerry Dipoto said, per USA Today's Bob Nightengale. "When you see a guy hit a ball 500 feet, and throw a ball 100-mph, it's a pretty unique skillset.