The Toronto Blue Jays made it official by signing Japanese infielder Kazuma Okamoto to a lucrative four-year contract worth $60 million in US dollars on Sunday. Okamoto, a standout player with six all-star appearances in Japan’s Nippon Professional Baseball league, had been linked with the Blue Jays in reports on Saturday. The 29-year-old, who primarily plays third base and first base, boasted an impressive .327 batting average along with 15 home runs and 49 RBIs in 69 games for the Yomiuri Giants last season, albeit missing a significant portion of the season due to an elbow injury.
In accordance with the MLB’s posting agreement with NPB, the Blue Jays are required to pay a posting fee of $10,875,000 to the Giants. Okamoto will receive a $5 million signing bonus, a $7 million salary for the current year, and $16 million annually for the subsequent three seasons. It is anticipated that Okamoto will primarily feature at third base alongside five-time All-Star Vladimir Guerrero Jr., who typically plays at first base. The Blue Jays may see positional changes with Addison Barger, Ernie Clement, Will Wagner, Isiah Kiner-Falefa, and Buddy Kennedy in the mix for various infield roles.
As part of the roster adjustments, the Blue Jays designated right-handed pitcher Paxton Schultz for assignment. Following their near World Series triumph last season, the Blue Jays have made significant enhancements to the team. Noteworthy signings include right-hander Dylan Cease on a seven-year, $210 million deal, right-hander Cody Ponce on a three-year, $30 million contract, and reliever Tyler Rogers on a three-year, $37 million agreement. Additionally, right-hander Shane Bieber opted to exercise a $16 million player option for the 2026 season instead of testing free agency.