A Legendary Career in Japan
Tomoyuki Sugano, one of the most accomplished pitchers in Japanese baseball history, is set to make a significant career move. After spending an impressive 12 years with the Yomiuri Giants in Nippon Professional Baseball (NPB), Sugano is preparing to pursue a career in Major League Baseball (MLB) as an international free agent. This decision marks a pivotal moment for Sugano, who has long been recognized as a standout talent in Japan.
As he approaches his 35th birthday, Tomoyuki Sugano is coming off a remarkable season, boasting a stellar 1.67 ERA over 24 starts for the Central League champions. His accolades include two Sawamura Awards—equivalent to the Cy Young Award in the U.S.—as well as multiple MVP honors and ERA championships. After a challenging few seasons, Sugano’s resurgence in 2024 has positioned him to finally explore opportunities in MLB.
A Journey of Perseverance
Tomoyuki Sugano’s road to MLB has been a winding one. In 2020, he was posted by the Yomiuri Giants, and many expected him to sign with a big league team. However, the deal fell through, and he returned to Japan, choosing to stay with the Giants under a four-year contract. This contract included options that allowed him to pursue international opportunities after each season, but Sugano ultimately decided to remain in NPB, prioritizing stability amid a decline in performance.
Over the past few years, Tomoyuki Sugano faced challenges, including injuries that limited his innings and a gradual decrease in his strikeout rates. However, the 2024 season marked a triumphant return for him. With an impressive 15-3 record and a 1.67 ERA, he demonstrated not only his durability but also his ability to adapt as an older pitcher. His impressive command was evident, as he issued just 16 walks over 156⅔ innings, while allowing only six home runs in a league known for its lower home run rates compared to MLB.
A Six-Pitch Arsenal
Tomoyuki Sugano’s success can be attributed to his versatile pitching arsenal. He employs a six-pitch mix that includes a four-seam fastball, a two-seamer, a slider, a cutter, a splitter, and a curveball. This variety allows him to keep hitters off balance and adapt to different situations on the mound. His ability to command each pitch effectively has made him a nightmare for opposing hitters in NPB, evidenced by the positive run values he has achieved across all his pitches this season.
At 6-foot-1 and weighing 210 pounds, Tomoyuki Sugano has managed to stay healthy throughout the current season, more than doubling his inning output from the previous year. This renewed stamina and effectiveness could make him a valuable addition to any MLB team looking for a dependable starting pitcher.
Another free agent SP is on the board with Tomoyuki Sugano coming to MLB in 2025, per @JeffPassan.
— Tyler Milliken ⚾️ (@tylermilliken_) October 4, 2024
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
Looking Ahead to MLB
With his contract with the Giants now concluded, Tomoyuki Sugano finds himself in a unique position. Unlike players who are posted by their teams, international free agents like Sugano face no restrictions in their pursuit of contracts. His extensive experience and impressive track record make him an attractive candidate for MLB teams, especially in a year when the free-agent starting pitching market is expected to be robust.
Prominent names such as Corbin Burnes, Blake Snell, Max Fried, and Jack Flaherty are expected to headline the market, which could lead to intense competition for Sugano’s services. Additionally, if younger talents like Roki Sasaki become available, the pitching market could become even more crowded, further heightening the interest in veteran arms like Sugano.
The Legacy of a NPB Star
Sugano’s departure from NPB could signal the end of an era for the Yomiuri Giants. Over his illustrious career, he has achieved a record of 136-75, with a lifetime ERA of 2.45, 1,596 strikeouts, and a WHIP of 1.035. His contributions to the team and the league have been immense, making him a beloved figure in Japanese baseball.
As he prepares for this new chapter, Sugano will carry the weight of his accomplishments and the expectations of those who have followed his career. His journey reflects not just his personal ambitions but also the growing trend of talented Japanese players making their mark in MLB.
Tomoyuki Sugano’s impending transition to MLB is a thrilling development for both him and baseball fans worldwide. His experience and talent could provide an immediate impact for whichever team signs him. As he embarks on this new challenge, Sugano stands poised to prove that his skills honed in Japan can translate to success in the major leagues. The baseball community will be watching closely as he takes this significant step in his storied career.
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