New Balance has signed MLB sensation Shohei Ohtani to a long-term apparel and footwear partnership.

The Jаpаnese superstаr, whо cаn plаy оn bоth sides оf the bаll, hаs pаrted wаys with аsics аfter eight yeаrs оf spоnsоrship. Rumоr hаs it thаt Steve Cоhen’s New Yоrk Mets mаy be аmоng thоse оffering him а recоrd deаl next winter.

An exclusive 574 cleat will be the first offering from the partnership between New Balance and Ohtani, which was revealed on Tuesday morning. The sneaker is scheduled for release next month.

Ohtani expressed his excitement about joining the New Balance family as he continued his baseball career.

Famous all over the world, New Balance is known not only for its groundbreaking products but also for being an honest company that supports its athletes’ individuality. “I can’t wait to get in on the action and help them change the game.”

When Ohtani’s arbitration eligibility expired in October, he signed a $30 million contract with the Los Angeles Angels for the 2023 season.

No further terms are included in Ohtani’s deal, which is the highest one-year contract ever given to a player eligible for arbitration. The deal is fully guaranteed.

By a wide margin, the American League MVP’s $24.5 million increase from his compensation last year is the most in major league history for a player who is eligible for arbitration.

“Shohei is a once-in-a-generation athlete who fits with our larger roster of athletes in their approach to their respective sports,” said Neil Brooks, Head of Baseball Sports Marketing, on Tuesday.

While he lets his play on the field do the talking, Shohei is never content and is always looking for ways to improve his squad.

We are excited to strengthen our connection with Shohei, support him in realizing his goals, and, together, revolutionize the game.

As 2022 came to a close, the Angels’ 73-89 record put them 33 games behind the American League West-winning Houston Astros, who went on to win the World Series.

The Angels, to whom Ohtani was traded in 2018, are no longer on the market, but they have failed to reach the postseason since 2014.

Pitching for the 28-year-old, his record was 15-9 with a 2.33 ERA. While at bat, he Һit.273, had 95 RBIs, and Һit 34 home homers. The AL MVP title was bestowed upon him last year for his outstanding efforts.

In recognition of his multi-faceted contribution, Commissioner Rоb Manfred bestowed upon him a rare honor—the Commissioner’s Historic Achievement Award.

Before the Major League Baseball season begins in April, Ohtani will participate in the World Baseball Classic.