Those close to Shohei Ohtani believe he may be open to a short-term deal with an exceedingly high average annual value, according to a report.

Opting for that type of contract over a long-term deal worth upwards of $500 million would increase the number of potential suitors for Ohtani.

The record for annual contract value is $43.3 million -- set by Justin Verlander and Max Scherzer last season.