Kazuma Okamoto remains one of the most closely watched players on the MLB rumor market as his posting window nears its conclusion. The posting window timeline, late movement among interested clubs, and the NPB-to-MLB posting system have converged into a deadline-driven situation, with a decision expected soon.
The 29-year-old power-hitting infielder, posted from Nippon Professional Baseball, faces a firm timeline under the posting agreement governing international signings. Okamoto must reach an agreement with a club before the window expires or return to Japan without securing a deal. With time dwindling, league interest has narrowed to just a small group of teams.
According to MLB.com’s Mark Feinsand, the process has entered its final stage. He shared an update on X (formerly known as Twitter), indicating that a resolution could come quickly as the deadline approaches, while also clarifying how the market has shifted late in the process.
“Kazuma Okamoto’s posting window expires tomorrow afternoon, so it’s likely that he will agree to a deal today. The Pirates have been in on him, but a source said it’s unlikely he winds up in Pittsburgh. Padres could be the frontrunner.”
The Pittsburgh Pirates have remained connected to Okamoto throughout the process, reflecting his appeal across multiple markets. However, the report suggests the Pirates may not be positioned to close the deal as the window approaches it’s closing.
The San Diego Padres, meanwhile, have emerged as a strong late contender. San Diego has explored offensive upgrades this offseason and profiles as a club capable of integrating Okamoto’s right-handed bat into the middle of the lineup if an agreement materializes.
The veteran slugger’s deliberate pace mirrors many high-profile international postings, where decisions often come down to the final hours. The structure of the posting system leaves little margin for delay, turning the process into a binary outcome rather than an open-ended negotiation.
As the posting window approaches expiration, Okamoto’s MLB future stands on the brink of resolution, with the Padres appearing best positioned to land one of the international market’s most impactful offensive talents.