Pitching Talent
Genei Sato plans U.S. transfer for 2027 MLB draft
Reported by AI Image generated by AI
Right-hander Genei Sato, a third-year student at Sendai University in Japan, intends to transfer to a U.S. college in February 2026 to become eligible for the 2027 MLB Draft. The 21-year-old pitcher, seen as a potential first-round pick in Japan's 2026 NPB Draft, will play summer ball in the U.S. beforehand. This move follows a growing trend among Japanese amateurs seeking paths to Major League Baseball through NCAA programs.
Left-handed pitcher Gage Jump has quickly risen through the Oakland Athletics' farm system, earning recognition as the team's No. 3 prospect and MLB's No. 60 overall. After a strong 2025 minor league season, the 23-year-old is poised to contribute to the Athletics' pitching staff in the coming year. His rapid development highlights the team's improving talent pipeline.