The Toronto Blue Jays have reached a contract agreement with infielder Kazuma Okamoto, according to a source familiar with the negotiations who spoke to The Associated Press on Saturday. The individual requested anonymity as the deal had not been officially announced, and they were not authorized to discuss the details publicly.
Okamoto, a six-time All-Star, has recorded a .277 batting average with 248 home runs and 717 RBIs over 11 seasons in Japan’s Nippon Professional Baseball (NPB). He led the Central League in home runs in 2020, 2021, and 2023, and notably hit a home run in the 2023 World Baseball Classic final, helping Japan secure a 3-2 victory over the United States. According to the posting agreement between Major League Baseball (MLB) and NPB, the contract must be finalized by 5 p.m. ET on Sunday.
The 29-year-old versatile player, who can play both third base and first base, appeared in 69 games last year for the Yomiuri Giants, batting .327 with 15 home runs and 49 RBIs. His season was interrupted by an elbow injury sustained during a collision on May 6, which kept him out until mid-August. With Vladimir Guerrero Jr., a five-time All-Star, firmly at first base, Okamoto is expected to play mostly at third base. Last season, the Blue Jays’ third base position was shared among Addison Berger, Ernie Clement, Will Wagner, Isaiah Kiner-Falefa, and Buddy Kennedy.
Berger also plays right field, and Okamoto’s arrival could lead to Andres Jimenez moving from second base to shortstop unless the team re-signs free agent Bo Bichette. Meanwhile, Clement and Davis Schneider may share the second base position. MLB’s posting system with NPB involves a fee structure where 20% of the first $25 million of a player’s major league contract goes to NPB, with the rate decreasing on subsequent amounts, plus an additional 15% fee on bonuses, escalators, and exercised options.
Fan Take: This signing is significant for baseball fans as it highlights the growing trend of MLB teams investing in top talent from Japan, which can elevate the level of play and bring fresh excitement to the league. Okamoto’s power and versatility could make him a key contributor for the Blue Jays and potentially shift the team’s infield dynamics, impacting their competitiveness in the coming seasons.
