In a dramatic turn of events that has captivated Major League Baseball (MLB) and beyond, Los Angeles Dodgers manager Dave Roberts has publicly praised superstar Shohei Ohtani for rejecting a staggering $199 million sponsorship deal from Apple, proposed by CEO Tim Cook. The offer, which would have been one of the most lucrative endorsements in sports history, reportedly required Ohtani to promote pro-LGBTQ+ advertisements indefinitely throughout his MLB career. Roberts, known for his measured leadership, lauded Ohtani’s decision, stating bluntly, “Pride is over. Put your money to better use.” The comment, made during a recent press conference, has ignited a firestorm of reactions, highlighting tensions between corporate agendas, athletic autonomy, and societal expectations.
Tim Cook, the openly gay CEO of Apple, has long positioned the tech giant as a champion of diversity and inclusion. His leadership has driven initiatives like global Pride campaigns and substantial donations to LGBTQ+ causes, earning Apple a reputation as a progressive corporate leader. The reported $199 million deal offered to Ohtani was seen as an ambitious move to align Apple’s brand with the global stardom of the 31-year-old Japanese phenom, whose 2024 season—marked by a historic 50-50 (home runs and stolen bases) performance and a World Series championship—cemented his status as MLB’s brightest star. With a 10-year, $700 million contract with the Dodgers and an estimated $100 million in endorsements for 2025, Ohtani’s marketability is unmatched, making him an ideal candidate for Apple’s high-profile campaign.
The condition attached to the deal, however, proved to be a dealbreaker. Sources indicate that Ohtani, known for his reserved nature and laser focus on baseball, declined the offer after careful consideration, citing discomfort with committing to indefinite advocacy for any specific cause. His response, delivered through his representatives, emphasized his dedication to his sport and his desire to remain a unifying figure for fans worldwide. While the exact details of his statement remain private, it reportedly underscored his preference to avoid roles that extend beyond athletics, a stance that aligns with his apolitical endorsement portfolio, which includes brands like New Balance, Seiko, and Kose Cosmetics.
Dave Roberts’ vocal support for Ohtani’s decision has added fuel to an already heated debate. His remark, “Pride is over. Put your money to better use,” reflects a sentiment shared by some in the MLB community who believe athletes should not be pressured into corporate-driven social advocacy, regardless of the financial incentive. Roberts, a respected figure with a history of navigating complex team dynamics, argued that Ohtani’s focus should remain on his unprecedented contributions to baseball, particularly as he prepares to return as a two-way player in 2025 following elbow surgery. The manager’s blunt dismissal of the deal’s terms has drawn both praise and criticism, with some applauding his defense of Ohtani’s autonomy and others accusing him of downplaying the importance of LGBTQ+ advocacy.
The fallout has been swift and polarized. On platforms like X, fans and commentators have clashed over the implications of Ohtani’s rejection and Roberts’ remarks. Supporters argue that Ohtani’s decision reflects his right to maintain neutrality, particularly given cultural differences in Japan, where athletes rarely engage in public advocacy. Critics, however, view the move as a missed opportunity to advance inclusivity, with some expressing disappointment in Roberts’ dismissive tone toward Pride initiatives. The controversy has also spotlighted Cook’s offer, with some questioning whether Apple’s proposal crossed a line by tying a massive financial incentive to a lifelong commitment to a specific cause.
The broader conversation underscores the evolving role of athletes in an era where corporate sponsorships increasingly intersect with social issues. Ohtani’s existing endorsements, focused on products like watches and cosmetics, have avoided political or social controversies, suggesting a deliberate strategy to maintain broad appeal. Meanwhile, Cook’s offer highlights the growing expectation for athletes to leverage their platforms for advocacy, a trend seen in movements like Black Lives Matter and gender equality campaigns. As Ohtani gears up for the 2025 season, his decision to prioritize his athletic identity over a historic financial opportunity has solidified his reputation as a player who lets his performance speak loudest. Roberts’ outspoken support, while divisive, reinforces the notion that for some, baseball remains a sanctuary from the pressures of corporate and social expectations.
