MLB trade rumors: MLB insiders predicting Kazuma Okamoto could surpass $34 million Murakami deal as Orioles eye JoJo Romero (Image Via Getty) Kazuma Okamoto is quickly becoming the center of attention in Major League Baseball rumor talks this week. On Tuesday, December 24, 2025, fresh reports linked the Japanese slugger to a deal that could break recent market records. Teams across MLB are watching closely as Okamoto’s name keeps coming up in front-office discussions.At the same time, the Baltimore Orioles are staying aggressive. On the same day, reports confirmed that Baltimore is closing in on a trade for left-handed reliever JoJo Romero from the St. Louis Cardinals, adding more depth to an already busy offseason.
Kazuma Okamoto draws strong interest as Pittsburgh Pirates look for power
Kazuma Okamoto, a 29-year-old star from Japan’s Nippon Professional Baseball league, is now linked with the Pittsburgh Pirates. The Pirates have been active since the offseason began, trying to fix gaps after finishing with losing records in recent seasons.Okamoto is a six-time NPB All-Star and is known for his steady power at the plate. Pittsburgh has been searching for more infield pop, and league insiders believe he fits that need well. According to Ken Rosenthal, speaking this week, Okamoto’s contract is expected to go beyond the deal signed by Munetaka Murakami.Murakami signed a $34 million contract with the Chicago White Sox last week, a move confirmed through team and league records. Rosenthal said, “I think it might come from the Pirates, or some other team that isn’t necessarily on anyone’s radar.” Talks are still early, but the expectation around the league is clear.While Pittsburgh tracks Okamoto, the Baltimore Orioles are focused on pitching help. On December 24, multiple MLB reports stated that Baltimore is close to acquiring JoJo Romero from the St. Louis Cardinals.Romero is entering the final year of his contract and is coming off a strong 2025 season. He posted a 2.07 ERA over 61 innings, numbers confirmed by official MLB statistics. The Orioles have already added Ryan Helsley and Andrew Kittredge earlier this offseason, showing their clear plan to strengthen late-inning options.Baltimore’s front office believes Romero’s left-handed arm could play a key role as the team looks to stay competitive in the American League next season.Also Read: Alec Bohm and Erin Dolan’s Combined Net Worth in 2025: MLB salary, ESPN earnings, endorsements, and more