How a 29-Year-Old Third Baseman Could Make a Splash in His MLB Rookie Season
After losing a thrilling World Series to the Los Angeles Dodgers, the Toronto Blue Jays made a number of moves this past offseason. It is no secret that they are eager to get back to the World Series and break through with a championship. Besides upgrading the pitching staff with the addition of starter Dylan Cease and top reliever Tyler Rogers, they also boosted their offense. On January 4th, it was announced that 29-year-old Japanese infielder Kazuma Okamoto signed a four-year contract worth $60 million with the reigning American League champions. Before making the jump to the MLB, the 29-year-old spent 11 seasons with the Yomiuri Giants in the NPB as a proven power hitter. Though he has plenty of playing experience, MLB fans will be eager to see if he can make an impact against MLB pitching.
Throughout his career, the 29-year-old has spent time at both the first base and third base positions. However, the Blue Jays have a superstar, Vladimir Guerrero Jr., holding down first base. For the majority of last season, Ernie Clement served as Toronto’s starting third baseman. With the departure of two-time all-star Bo Bichette, Clement will likely move back to his natural position at second base. Therefore, the team needs a third baseman to round out the infield. The new infield situation further emphasizes the importance of Okamoto’s acquisition and the need for his contributions this upcoming season.
In a few short days since Spring Training games started, Okamoto has made an immediate impact for Toronto. He has already been the subject of headlines due to his flashes of on-field brilliance. During the Blue Jays’ first game of the spring against the Philadelphia Phillies on February 21st, the 29-year-old third baseman made an impressive charging play to cut down a runner sniffing an infield hit. Additionally, on February 23rd, while facing the New York Mets, he blasted a no-doubt 431-foot home run. Being one of the top hitters in the NPB for years and arguably the most polished free agent hitter coming out of Japan this offseason, it is no accident that Okamoto is having early success and looks poised to have a solid showing in 2026.
Although the 29-year-old third baseman will be listed as a rookie, there may be high expectations for him. First and foremost, the Blue Jays have high hopes for this season. Secondly, the fact that Okamoto is in the midst of his physical prime as an athlete puts even more pressure on him to perform and put his best foot forward in Toronto. Can he handle the high stakes? It remains to be seen. However, he is no stranger to the big stage, having participated in the 2023 World Baseball Classic, and will make another title run with Japan for the 2026 campaign. If the 29-year-old can play solid defense at third base and consistently find his power swing at the plate, he could become a legitimate force, and even a leader for the Blue Jays on both sides of the ball.
