MLB player prop bets and odds for Shohei Ohtani on Friday, May 9, 2025, as the Los Angeles Dodgers take on the Arizona Diamondbacks.

Nez Balelo says the two-way superstar, who ultimately signed a 10-year, $700 million deal, didn’t want to risk a decline in his skills while under a deal that would have paid him through age 44.

The Los Angeles Dodgers continue to play like World Series contenders, as manager Dave Roberts’ club looks to become the first repeat champions in MLB since the New York Yankees 25 years ago.Los Angeles enters Thursday not only atop the NL West standings at 25-12 but their mark is the best in baseball as well.