Dodgers continue to get most out of their $400M

LOS ANGELES — How did the Dodgers get this great? Sure, they spent a record $400 million ($550M counting the tax), but even better, they spent the big bucks on the best players.

Their roster includes four sure Hall of Famers, and no Anthony Rendons. Here’s how they locked up five superstars in deals raging from terrific to amazing bargains:

1. Shohei Ohtani, $700M, 10 years, deferrals (approximate real value: $450M)

This would be the greatest deal this century if Mark Walter hadn’t purchased the Dodgers for $2.15B (that’s the winner!) Ohtani is not only the best player and biggest phenomenon/attraction, they’re paying him at the rate of a utilityman ($2M) until deferrals come due in a decade. He’s the gift that keeps on giving for the Dodgers, who planned this for years and always felt pretty confident about their chances.

They make an enormous profit on him (tens of millions annually) via sponsorship, marketing and tickets. It even works OK for Ohtani, who deferred to help a team win since he himself makes about $100M a year extra himself in LA. He suggested this very deal to five finalists; the Jays and Giants accepted while the Cubs and incumbent Angels inexplicably said no. He presumably picked the Dodgers for location (he moved 45 miles north), championship chances and increased marketing opportunities, and understandably shows zero regret. Ohtani said he’s “grateful.”