"Throughout the current MLB offseason, rumors have had the Toronto Blue Jays going after the market's biggest free agents. Whether it be Alex Bregman, Cody Bellinger, Bo Bichette and of course top dog Kyle Tucker, there were various reasons that people came up with on why each one would make a great fit with the Blue Jays. However, Toronto surprised everyone on Saturday (Jan. 3), when they unsuspectingly reeled in Japanese star Kazuma Okamoto on a four-year deal. It may not be the free agent splash that many Blue Jays fans had been anticipating, but it sure sent shockwaves through Jays nation and around the baseball world that the team really means business this winter."
"First and foremost, Toronto was able to net Okamoto on a four-year, $60 million contract. Without question the expected contracts of any of the "big four" will no doubt be significantly more than that and likely for more committed years as well. However, if Okamoto can somehow translate his numbers in Japan to the MLB, then he could provide as much value as the other four free agents but at a super discounted price."
Toronto signed Kazuma Okamoto to a four-year, $60 million contract, surprising fans who expected pursuits of major free agents like Bregman, Bellinger, Bichette, and Tucker. Okamoto projects to produce roughly 80+ runs, 30+ home runs, 90+ RBIs and a batting average above .270 annually if his Japanese numbers translate to MLB. The lower-cost deal could match the offensive value of higher-priced free agents while preserving payroll flexibility for further roster upgrades. The signing reduces long-term financial commitment and risk compared with lengthy, expensive contracts for the so-called "big four."
Read at Jays Journal
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