Overview
- Okamoto must finalize an MLB contract by Sunday at 4 p.m. CT (5 p.m. ET) or return to the Yomiuri Giants for 2026.
- Multiple teams remain engaged, with the Padres frequently cited as the leading suitor and the Pirates described as unlikely by MLB.com.
- The Red Sox, Mariners, Angels, and Blue Jays are among reported contenders, with Seattle newly linked and Toronto weighing occasional outfield use for him.
- Reporters anticipate a shorter-term pact, reflecting market resets after Munetaka Murakami’s two-year deal with the White Sox and Tatsuya Imai’s three-year agreement with the Astros.
- Evaluators view Okamoto as a contact-forward corner bat who can play first or third and potentially see limited time in left field.