Sugano Joins Baltimore Orioles, Bringing Stellar NPB Record
The Baltimore Orioles have made a significant addition to their pitching rotation by signing veteran Japanese pitcher Tomoyuki Sugano. The seasoned right-hander, known for his outstanding performance in Japan's Nippon Professional Baseball (NPB), has agreed to a one-year deal worth $13 million with the team.
A Proven Track Record
Sugano, 35, brings a wealth of experience and a remarkable track record from his time with the Yomiuri Giants, where he played for 12 seasons. Over his career in the NPB, Sugano has maintained an impressive 2.45 ERA, underlining his reliability and skill on the mound. He has made nearly 300 professional appearances in Japan, showcasing his durability and consistency as a player.
His stellar performance includes a career strikeout-to-walk (K/BB) ratio of 4.53, demonstrating his control and power as a pitcher. In his most recent season, Sugano posted extraordinary numbers with a 1.67 ERA, accumulating 111 strikeouts and only 16 unintentional walks over 156 2/3 innings in 2024. These statistics point to a player who still possesses exceptional ability and command, even as he approaches his mid-30s.
Accolades and Recognition
Sugano's list of accolades is extensive, reflecting his standing and success in NPB. He has been selected for eight All-Star Games, a testament to his enduring talent and popularity. Furthermore, his excellence has earned him two MVP awards and two Eiji Sawamura Awards, akin to the Cy Young Award in the United States.
Transition to Major League Baseball
Though Sugano had previously considered joining Major League Baseball before the 2021 season, it is now that he takes on the challenge. His decision comes as the Orioles seek to bolster their pitching staff amidst changes in their roster. Baltimore, having reached the postseason in each of the last two years, has struggled to advance beyond the opening round. Sugano's experience is seen as a critical factor in strengthening the Orioles' chances of making a deeper playoff run.
Key Changes and Future Prospects
The Orioles' acquisition of Sugano comes at a pivotal moment for their pitching lineup. With their ace, Corbin Burnes, testing the free-agent market, Sugano’s leadership and expertise will be crucial for the team. His low-90s fastball combined with a deceptive splitter adds a unique edge to Baltimore's pitching arsenal, potentially serving as a cornerstone to guide the team through the uncertainties of the coming season.
Despite his age, Sugano continues to display significant potential in maintaining effective strikeout capabilities, with a rate of 6.4 strikeouts per nine innings in his recent season. The Orioles are counting on his steady performance to help them navigate the competitive landscape of Major League Baseball.
Ultimately, Tomoyuki Sugano's arrival in Baltimore marks an exciting chapter for both the pitcher and the Orioles. As the team looks to translate his considerable success in Japan to the Major Leagues, fans of Baltimore will be eager to see how this new addition impacts the team’s fortunes in their pursuit of postseason success.