MLB Rumors: Another Japanese Star Pitcher Is Coming To MLB

Another Japanese star pitcher is set to make his way to Major League Baseball, as veteran right-hander Tomoyuki Sugano prepares to test the free agency waters this offseason. 

After a decorated 12-year career in Nippon Professional Baseball (NPB) with the Yomiuri Giants, Sugano, 35, enters MLB free agency unrestricted by the posting system. 

A two-time Central League MVP and four-time ERA champion, Sugano has been a dominant force in Japan, posting a career 2.43 ERA and winning two Eiji Sawamura Awards—Japan’s equivalent of the Cy Young. 

His 2024 season was a renaissance, as he delivered a stellar 1.67 ERA over 156.2 innings, reminding everyone why he was once considered one of the top international pitching prospects.

Righty Tomoyuki Sugano will sign with an MLB team as an international free agent this winter, per @JeffPassan pic.twitter.com/NanCoYBbI1

— B/R Walk-Off (@BRWalkoff) October 4, 2024

This will be Sugano’s second attempt to join MLB after being posted in 2020, when teams like the New York Yankees, Boston Red Sox, and San Diego Padres showed interest. 

However, he ultimately returned to Japan on a four-year, $40 million deal. Now, as a true free agent, Sugano can negotiate freely, making him an intriguing option for MLB teams seeking a veteran arm. 

"Sugano’s recent success shows he still has elite command and pitchability, even as his velocity isn’t what it used to be," ESPN's Jeff Passan noted, highlighting his precise 92 mph fastball, cutter, splitter, and slider, which have continued to flummox hitters.

Another free agent SP is on the board with Tomoyuki Sugano coming to MLB in 2025, per @JeffPassan.

1.67 ERA in his age-34 season. Doesn’t miss a ton of bats with a 6.4 K/9, but also doesn’t walk anyone with a 0.9 BB/9.

Originally was posted in 2020.pic.twitter.com/tpBPT3NFU9

— Tyler Milliken ⚾️ (@tylermilliken_) October 4, 2024

Sugano’s move comes at a time when Japanese pitchers are making an increasingly significant impact in MLB, with stars like Shohei Ohtani and Kodai Senga excelling. 

While younger sensations like Roki Sasaki are drawing attention for potential future MLB moves, Sugano’s vast experience and proven track record offer a different appeal. 

With no posting fee required and his elite command still intact, he presents an intriguing option for teams looking for a short-term boost to their rotations.

Photo Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images