Following their four-year, $60 million signing of Kazuma Okamoto from Japan's Yomiuri Giants last weekend, the Toronto Blue Jays held a press conference at Rogers Centre to introduce the 29-year-old slugger. Okamoto expressed excitement about joining the team, while GM Ross Atkins highlighted his fit, as the move aims to tap into the Japanese market.
The January 6 event at Rogers Centre drew a large crowd, with Japanese reporters outnumbering local media, underscoring Okamoto's popularity after 11 seasons with the Giants.
Okamoto greeted the audience in English: “Hello, everyone. My name is Kazuma Okamoto. Thank you very much for this opportunity. I am very happy to join the Blue Jays. I will work hard every day and do my best for the team. Thank you for your support. Nice to meet you. Go Blue Jays.” Through interpreter Gino Gordon, he shared how his daughter picked the Blue Jays logo from 30 MLB options.
Atkins praised Okamoto's offensive dynamism and defensive versatility, noting his impact 'on both sides of the ball.' Okamoto, who has led Japan's Central League in home runs three times and helped win the 2023 World Baseball Classic, is open to playing third base, first base, or left field. He was impressed by Toronto fans during their 2025 playoff run.
Under MLB's posting rules, the Blue Jays will pay the Giants a $10.875 million fee. The signing addresses power needs for a lineup that ranked mid-pack in home runs last year. Atkins indicated openness to more moves, including links to Bo Bichette and Kyle Tucker. The Blue Jays open 2026 on March 27 against the Oakland Athletics.