Shohei Ohtani signs deal with Topps

Topps introduced Thursday that it has partnered with Los Angeles Dodgers celebrity Shohei Ohtani on an unique international buying and selling card deal.

The settlement between Ohtani and Topps, which was acquired by Fanatics Collectibles in 2022, contains playing cards that includes autographs and game-used memorabilia, in addition to moments and achievements from Ohtani’s profession. It should contain merchandise primarily based in each the US and Ohtani’s native Japan, which is a rising marketplace for Topps and the pastime as an entire.

“I’m joyful to be solely partnering with Topps to offer followers distinctive playing cards and collectibles for seasons to come back,” Ohtani mentioned in a press launch.

Ohtani beforehand had an unique memorabilia partnership with Fanatics, however the deal didn’t embrace buying and selling playing cards.

Monetary particulars of the brand new deal weren’t disclosed, however Fanatics Collectibles president of buying and selling playing cards David Leiner emphasised that it’s a long-term settlement and mentioned it’s much like the deal the corporate signed with NBA celebrity LeBron James in January.

“It is a momentous day in our model’s historical past,” Leiner mentioned. “We aren’t simply companions with Shohei — we’re massive followers, each of every part he’s achieved on the sphere and the way he represents the sport off of it. With this new, unique deal, Topps will proceed to be revolutionary in our choices with him, giving collectors product that’s by no means earlier than been seen within the pastime, all whereas bringing them nearer to this once-in-a-lifetime participant.”

One of many greatest names within the sport, Ohtani has received two MVP Awards and earned 4 All-Star picks over seven seasons in MLB whereas displaying the distinctive capacity to be an elite offensive participant and ace pitcher on the identical time. After six seasons with the Angels, Ohtani joined the Dodgers on a historic 10-year, $700 million deal final offseason.

Ohtani is not pitching in 2024 after present process proper elbow surgical procedure, however he not too long ago turned the quickest participant in MLB historical past to hitch the 40-40 membership — doing so in his 126th recreation of the season — and has an opportunity to grow to be the primary participant to supply 50 homers and 50 steals in a single season.