Kazuma Okamoto, the third and final star to transition from Japan’s NPB to MLB this offseason, must finalize a contract with a major league team by 5 p.m. ET on Sunday, marking the conclusion of a much-anticipated trio of signings that have captured attention recently. Following slugger Munetaka Murakami’s unexpected agreement with the White Sox and right-handed pitcher Tatsuya Imai’s deal with the Houston Astros, Okamoto’s decision holds significant weight. While Okamoto and Murakami are close friends, comparing their MLB prospects is inevitable due to the timing of their moves and their distinct hitting styles. Murakami’s struggles with strikeouts and defensive limitations restrained his market value, leading to a shorter-term deal with the rebuilding White Sox. In contrast, Okamoto boasts strong batting skills and a better fit at third base, making him more appealing for teams seeking immediate impact.
Despite nearing free agency age at 30, Okamoto is unlikely to secure a multi-year, high-value contract like domestic free agents but his proven consistency and solid offensive talent suggest he could contribute immediately at the major league level. Though Okamoto may not have Murakami’s early-career high ceiling — Murakami won consecutive Central League MVPs and set a home run record for Japanese players with 56 in 2022 — Okamoto remains one of the best hitters of his generation in NPB. He ranks second to Murakami in home runs with 152 over five NPB seasons, a feat notable given the league’s generally low offensive environment.
Okamoto’s power stems from excellent contact ability and a talent for lifting the ball, demonstrated by a career-best 11.3% strikeout rate and a 90% in-zone contact rate in 2025, along with a low ground-ball rate that would rank among the worst in MLB if sustained. His status is elevated by his tenure with the Yomiuri Giants, Japan’s most successful and popular team, akin to playing for the Yankees in the U.S. His star power was further enhanced by a standout performance in the 2023 World Baseball Classic, where he hit .333/.556/.722, including key home runs in crucial games. Samurai Japan manager Hirokazu Ibata already hinted at Okamoto’s future role as a third baseman and cleanup hitter.
Unlike Murakami, who is expected to play first base in MLB, Okamoto projects primarily as a third baseman and offers flexibility with significant outfield experience. While no elite defender like Nolan Arenado, he is seen capable of handling third base and his outfield experience adds versatility. Although scouting reports and stats look promising, predicting the success of a hitter transitioning from NPB to MLB is challenging due to fewer precedents compared to pitchers.
Imai is the 53rd NPB pitcher to sign with an MLB team since Hideo Nomo in 1995, while Okamoto will be the 20th batter since Ichiro Suzuki’s move in 2001. The careers of these hitters have varied widely, from Hall of Famers like Ichiro to average players and some who failed to make an impact. Where Okamoto ends up on this spectrum remains to be seen, but his signing marks a significant chapter in the growing trend of Japanese stars heading to MLB.
Fan Take: Kazuma Okamoto’s move to MLB is a thrilling development for baseball fans as it highlights the continuing globalization of the sport and introduces a proven, skilled hitter who can make an immediate impact. His successful transition could inspire more Japanese stars to take the leap, further enriching the MLB talent pool and intensifying the competition and excitement for fans worldwide.
