2-Time Japanese Batting Champ To Be Coming To MLB

Major league free agency is about to get a major outfielder added to the mix, as sources say that two-time Nippon Professional Baseball batting champion Masataka Yoshida is likely to be posted by the Orix Buffaloes within the next 2 weeks. 

Sources: Masataka Yoshida, two-time batting champ in NPB, likely to be posted by Orix Buffaloes in the next 2 weeks. Details are still being discussed, but it’s becoming increasingly likely that Yoshida, a left fielder, will play next season in @MLB. 🇯🇵 @MLBNetwork

— Jon Morosi (@jonmorosi) November 8, 2022

Yoshida is a left fielder, and it's a welcome addition to the free agent ranks, as top outfielders (after Aaron Judge and Brandon Nimmo) are scarce this year on the market.

“I’ve always wanted to play at a high level," said Yoshida, who has played seven seasons in Japan and has compiled a .327 lifetime average with an equally impressive .421 on-base and .960 OPS. The 29-year-old also has four All-Star appearances and two batting titles. 

Once the posting is official, Yoshida would have 30 days to negotiate with MLB teams to come to a deal. If no agreement is struck he would return to the Buffaloes. 

A scouting report in Baseball America states:

"Yoshida has a good approach and decent power. He has room to fill out at the plate but his selective approach and ability to get on base is serving him well. He doesn't play a big role as a base stealer, but moves well."

Once he hits the North American market, he'll have plenty of suitors. 

Photo: Yukihito Taguchi-USA TODAY Sports