Kazuma Okamoto is secure in being himself.
The new Toronto Blue Jays third baseman from Japan hasn’t gotten to play an MLB game yet. But he’s already shown a fun sense of humor.
At his press conference on Saturday, Okamoto delivered a fun line through an interpreter.
“I’m very serious … and very manly,” Okamoto said through his interpreter before laughing, according to MLB.com. “I think I can say that about myself.”
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Blue Jays fans would love it if Okamoto turns out to be the man.
He essentially works out to be their replacement for Bo Bichette.
Bichette cost the Mets three years and $126 million. Okamoto’s contract in Toronto is four years and $60 million.
So if he hits well, he works out to be a bargain.
If he doesn’t, though, the humor might not be quite as funny.
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Okamoto has a record of hitting very well in Japan, a contact hitter with solid court vision and sturdy power, too.
He’s not thought to be an incredible third baseman, but that’s where he’ll play, with Andres Gimenez at shortstop and Ernie Clement at second base.
Okamoto also won’t be in camp long before he leaves to represent Japan in the World Baseball Classic. So he’s got to make a quick impression.
By Opening Day, Blue Jays fans will hope Okamoto can make them smile with his play as well as his jokes.
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