Japanese Baseball Stars Ready for MLB
The baseball world is preparing to welcome two outstanding players from the Japanese league, who will seek a place in Major League Baseball (MLB). Infielder Kazuma Okamoto and pitcher Kona Takahashi have been made available to MLB teams through the “posting” system, which allows them to negotiate and sign contracts as free agents.
This process will be open from Friday until January 4th, giving MLB franchises the opportunity to incorporate these talented players into their ranks.
These players join Munetaka Murakami, a prominent infielder known for his batting power, whose 45-day signing deadline expires on December 22, and right-handed pitcher Tatsuya Imai, who can sign until January 2.
Kazuma Okamoto: A Consistent Hitter
Kazuma Okamoto, 29 years old, has proven to be a top-level hitter in the Japanese league. In the current season, Okamoto batted .327 with 15 home runs and 49 RBIs in 69 games with the Yomiuri Giants of the Central League.
His performance was affected by a left elbow injury sustained on May 6, which kept him out of action until August 16.
Okamoto is a veteran with six All-Star selections, and has a batting average of .277, with 248 home runs and 717 RBIs in 11 seasons in the Japanese league. He was the Central League home run leader in 2020, 2021, and 2023. His ability to hit the ball was demonstrated in the 2023 World Baseball Classic, where he hit a home run against pitcher Kyle Freeland, contributing to Japan’s victory over the United States.
Kona Takahashi: An Experienced Pitcher
Kona Takahashi, a right-handed pitcher who will turn 29 on February 3rd, had a season with an 8-9 record and a 3.04 ERA with the Seibu Lions of the Pacific League, striking out 88 batters and giving up 41 walks in 148 innings pitched. Before this season, Takahashi had a 22-16 record in the previous two seasons.
In his 11 seasons with the Lions, Takahashi has accumulated a record of 73-77 with an effectiveness of 3.39.
The “Posting” Process
According to the “posting” agreement between MLB and Nippon Professional Baseball, the “posting” fee for MLB teams is calculated as follows:
- 20% of the first $25 million contract, including bonuses and options.
- 17.5% of the next $25 million.
- 15% of any amount over $50 million.
Additionally, a 15% surcharge will be applied to any bonus earned, salary increases, and options exercised.
