The Toronto Blue Jays have agreed to a four-year, $60 million contract with Japanese infielder Kazuma Okamoto, adding a proven power hitter from the Yomiuri Giants to their roster. The 29-year-old, who starred in the 2023 World Baseball Classic, brings versatility at third base, first base and the outfield. This move bolsters Toronto's lineup after their 2025 American League pennant win and World Series loss to the Dodgers.
The Toronto Blue Jays continued their aggressive offseason by securing Kazuma Okamoto, a six-time Nippon Professional Baseball All-Star, on a deal that includes a $5 million signing bonus, $7 million salary in 2026, and $16 million annually for the following three years with no opt-outs. Okamoto, who spent 11 seasons with the Yomiuri Giants, arrives after a 2025 season limited to 69 games due to a left elbow injury from a collision at first base. Despite the abbreviated campaign, he posted a .327 batting average, .416 on-base percentage, .598 slugging percentage, 15 home runs, and 49 RBIs.
Okamoto's career in Japan includes a .274/.355/.501 slash line, 248 home runs, and six straight seasons of 30-plus homers from 2018 to 2023, peaking at 41 in 2023. He led the Central League in home runs three times and earned two Golden Glove awards at third base in 2021 and 2022. Internationally, he shone in the 2023 World Baseball Classic, slashing .333/.556/.722 with two homers and seven RBIs, including a decisive solo shot off Kyle Freeland in Japan's championship win over the United States.
"I believe MLB is the best league in the world, and I’ve always wanted to play there," Okamoto said after being posted in November. His low strikeout rate and ability to handle velocity make him a fit for Toronto's contact-oriented lineup, which reached the World Series in 2025 before falling short.
This signing follows Toronto's pitching reinforcements: Dylan Cease on a seven-year, $210 million deal, Cody Ponce for three years and $30 million, and reliever Tyler Rogers for three years and $37 million. Shane Bieber opted into his 2026 contract. Okamoto likely slots at third base, potentially shifting Addison Barger to right field and Ernie Clement to second, especially if Bo Bichette departs as a free agent. The move reduces interest in Alex Bregman but leaves room for outfielder Kyle Tucker. With Vladimir Guerrero Jr. locked at first, Okamoto's versatility adds depth to a contender reloading for another title run.
The Blue Jays' $337 million in new commitments underscores their urgency post-World Series heartbreak, positioning them among MLB's top spenders.
