Jon Heyman of the New York Post reports this that the Blue Jays are among the teams interested in Japanese third baseman Kazuma Okamoto. The Blue Jays aren’t the only team interested in Okamoto’s services, as Heyman noted he’s receiving significant interest from Major League organizations.
Okamoto has been one of Nippon Professional Baseball’s most productive hitters throughout his career. The Yomiuri Giants third baseman, a six-time All-Star, hit at least 30 home runs every year from 2018 through 2023 and led the league in 2020, 2021 and 2023. He had another strong outing in 2025 despite missing about half the season due to a sprained left elbow, giving him a .327/.416/.598 batting line in 293. appearances, hitting 15 home runs and 21 doubles.
Kazuma Okamoto could improve the Toronto Blue Jays lineup, but where does he play?
Okamoto is known for his ability to make hard contact and his strong hitting eye despite a heavy approach. He showed the ability to handle high speed in 2025, albeit in a smaller sample size. His approach does lead to issues with offspeed and breaking away pitches, but his ability to make contact mitigates those concerns.
The biggest question is where he would play. Although Okamoto has primarily been a third baseman, he is expected to move up to first in the Majors. That’s a potential concern in Toronto, as Vladimir Guerrero Jr. initially entrenched itself. However, neither Addison Barger nor Ernie Clement, who split time in the hot corner, have the same advantage as Okamoto.
Defensive offense may not be much of an issue in Toronto. Clement and Barger can play multiple positions and would improve the Blue Jays’ bench. Okamoto also has limited experience in the outfield, but could push Anthony Santander into a full-time role as the designated hitter. As long as his NPB production can translate to the majors, the Blue Jays will find a spot for Okamoto if he signs in Toronto.
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