Japanese Players Shine in the 2025-26 MLB Market
The 2025-26 MLB offseason promises to be exciting with the arrival of talented Japanese players who will seek to shine in American baseball. After being released by their respective clubs in the Nippon Professional Baseball (NPB), these athletes are ready to prove their worth in the Major Leagues.
Three names resonate strongly among MLB teams: right-handed pitcher Tatsuya Imai and infielders Munetaka Murakami and Kazuma Okamoto. We analyze what to expect from each of them and which teams might be interested in their services.
Tatsuya Imai, Right-Handed Pitcher
Imai, 27 years old, is seen as a potential third starter. His ERA is expected to be around 3.00, although adapting to MLB could be a challenge. Standing at 1.80 meters tall, Imai compensates with control and a repertoire of quality pitches.
Although he is not a pitcher with great power, his fastball ranges between 93-97 mph, reaching 99 mph. His splitter and slider are above-average pitches. His slider is particularly interesting, with a movement that disconcerts the hitters, making it effective.
Imai’s success could follow a pattern similar to Trey Yesavage’s, who uses a combination of fastball, slider with lateral movement, and splitter. Given his ability to improve his command and his youth, teams see in Imai the potential to adapt and make adjustments in the MLB.
Because Imai is not subject to a qualifying offer and is one of the youngest free agents, his contract could exceed nine figures. A total cost of $157 million is estimated over six years. Teams like the Mets, Giants, and Yankees, with a history of signing Japanese talent, could show interest.
Munetaka Murakami, Infielder
Murakami, with his power from the left side of the plate, is a fascinating player. His ability to hit home runs and his youth (25 years old) make him very attractive.
However, his high strikeout rate and low contact average raise questions. Although he is expected to play primarily at first base in MLB, his experience at that position is limited.
Some analysts believe that he can improve his performance with adjustments to his technique and approach. It is projected that he could be an immediate home run threat, with a good walk percentage, but with a low batting average. It is estimated that his total cost could be around $94 million.
The Yankees could be a potential destination, given their predilection for exit velocity and the age of the players. The Cubs, Giants, Astros, and Blue Jays could also be options.
Kazuma Okamoto, Infielder
Okamoto, 29, stands out for his consistency. He has led the NPB in home runs since 2018, with 247, surpassing Murakami. Although he doesn’t have the same explosive power, his profile is more stable, which could translate into a short-term contract.
With power and the ability to connect good pitches, Okamoto is a right-handed hitter who will turn 30 in June and is likely to play first base in the long term. His potential may be limited, but if he maintains his performance in terms of on-base percentage and power, he could be a consistent player in MLB.
Unlike Murakami, Okamoto has experience at first base, which could facilitate his adaptation. His acquisition cost is estimated at less than $43 million in three years. The Mets, Astros, Yankees, Pirates, Marlins, Padres, Phillies, and Diamondbacks could be interested in him as a more economical option.
