Kazuma Okamoto might be again within the coronary heart of Japan’s order on the upcoming World Baseball Basic.
Another notable big-leaguers introduced to the roster have been Shohei Ohtani, Yoshinobu Yamamoto, Munetaka Murakami, Yusei Kikuchi and Seiya Suzuki.
Okamoto, signed by the Blue Jays on a four-year, $60-million contract in early January, had emerged as one of many prime energy threats for the Yomiuri Giants in Nippon Skilled Baseball earlier than deciding to make the transfer to MLB.
The 29-year-old infielder performed in simply 69 video games for the Giants as a consequence of an elbow damage in 2025, however nonetheless managed to crank 15 homers whereas slashing .327/.416/.598.
He was a key a part of Japan’s World Baseball Basic victory in 2023, posting a 1.278 OPS with two longballs within the event, together with one in opposition to the USA within the championship sport.
Okamoto might be one in every of many Blue Jays participating on this yr’s Basic.
Vladimir Guerrero Jr. (Dominican Republic), Alejandro Kirk (Mexico), José Berríos (Puerto Rico), Cody Ponce (Mexico), Adam Macko (Canada), Leo Jimenez (Panama), Yariel Rodriguez (Cuba) and Ernie Clement (United States) have all both dedicated to play or have said their curiosity in taking part in for his or her international locations.
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Watch the World Baseball Basic on Sportsnet
The World Baseball Basic is again for its sixth version, operating from March 5-17 in Miami, Houston, San Juan and Tokyo. Catch all of the motion on Sportsnet and Sportsnet+.
Okamoto and Japan will host Pool C play on the Tokyo Dome, the place the reigning champs will look to complete prime two within the group, rounded out by Australia, Czechia, Chinese language Taipei, and Korea. The highest two finishers in round-robin motion will advance to the quarterfinals hosted in Miami.
Pool C begins play on March 5.
