Chicago Cubs: Choosing between Jake Arrieta and Shohei Otani

Who is costlier?

Let’s compare the two from a financial standpoint first.

Teams interested in communicating with the versatile Japanese star, would have to pay a multi-million dollar posting fee for the potential superstar. If he waited a couple of years, Otani could easily ask for a $200 million contract. That being said, he’s demonstrated money is not his primary motivator.

Again, Bleacher Nation lays it out in simple terms:

"Per reports out of Japan, the decision has been made, and Otani will be posted by his NPB team this offseason, regardless of the fact that he is currently subject to IFA restrictions that will max out his possible bonus in the $5 to $8 million range. If the 23-year-old were to wait just two more years, he could very plausibly sign a $200 million contract."

Jake Arrieta on the other hand, comes with a larger, more concrete price tag right out of the gates.

He’s a former Cy Young Award winner and a World Series champion. His numbers have been consistent and dominant. Expect Arrieta to ask for a similar contract to Max Scherzer of the Nationals. Scherzer signed his deal at 30 years old.

Arrieta would be 32 at the time of his new contract and easily could seek a seven-year deal at upwards of $180 million – at an AAV north of $25 million.