Kasuma Okamoto to the Pirates?
We all know the Pirates offense struggled last season and finishing at the bottom of the league in most offensive categories. This team is in desperate need of some impact bats. Fortunately for them, there’s a player coming over from the NPB that might be the perfect fit. And no, it isn’t Munitaka Murakami. Enter Kazuma Okamoto, one of the most feared sluggers in NPB. The 29-year-old has blasted 30 or more home runs in all but two of his eight seasons, including an incredible 41 homer campaign in 2023. In the same span, he’s also recorded over 40 wins above replacement. Despite being limited to just 69 games last year due to an injury, Okamoto still managed to post a WRC plus of 210 alongside on base percentage north of 415. The underlying numbers are good also as Okamoto remains one of the most patient hitters in the league, rarely chasing out of the strike zone. There are some questions regarding how Okamoto will adjust to MLB pitching, but it doesn’t seem like it’ll be much of a problem. Over his career, Okamoto has posted a contact rate of over 80% against fast balls 93 mph or harder. Although he’s a power-hitting corner infielder, he doesn’t sacrifice his glove. He’s played good defense and he’d allow the Pirates to be more flexible with their lineups. He’s also taken reps in the outfield, an area the Pirates desperately need to upgrade in. Because of his plate discipline and defensive abilities, he’ll likely have a higher floor than Munitaka Murakami. The Pirates will likely have to pay up for Okamoto even though he’s coming over through the posting system, but he’ll be worth every penny of the financial commitment.
Kazuma Okamoto must sign with an MLB team by January 4, 2026, at 5 p.m. ET. Can the Pirates make it happen?
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