Orioles Sign Veteran RHP Coming Off MVP Year in Japan—Will the Leap to MLB Work?

In a move that has raised eyebrows across the baseball world, the Baltimore Orioles have agreed to a one-year contract with Japanese pitching star Tomoyuki Sugano. The right-hander, who has spent 12 years with the Yomiuri Giants in Nippon Professional Baseball (NPB), comes off an MVP season and offers the Orioles a potent arm to bolster their rotation for the upcoming season.

Sugano, 35, is fresh off an incredible 2023 campaign, where he posted a 15-3 record and a remarkable 1.67 ERA. His performance earned him the prestigious Central League MVP award, a testament to his dominance on the mound. Over his 12 years with the Giants, Sugano compiled a 136-74 record, with a 2.43 ERA across 276 games. His consistency and ability to perform year in and year out have made him one of the top pitchers in Japanese baseball.

Sugano’s Achievements in Japan

Sugano’s career in Japan has been nothing short of stellar. He is a two-time winner of the Central League MVP (2014 and 2020) and an eight-time All-Star. His dominance on the mound has been well-documented, and his achievements in NPB are impossible to ignore. He was a key figure for the Yomiuri Giants, contributing to their success in the Central League and making a significant impact on the international stage.

One of Sugano’s most memorable performances came during the 2017 World Baseball Classic, where he pitched for Japan and impressed the world. In a semifinal matchup against the United States, Sugano limited Team USA to just three hits over six innings, proving his ability to perform on the biggest stages.

A Veteran Presence for the Orioles’ Rotation

The Orioles, fresh off a solid season in 2023, have made it clear they are looking to add veteran talent to their pitching staff as they continue to build toward the future. Sugano’s experience and high level of success in NPB should bring much-needed depth to a rotation that has shown promise but can always benefit from an established arm.

For a team like the Orioles, who have seen their rebuild take positive strides in recent years, signing Sugano offers not only an immediate boost but also a long-term benefit. With his track record of consistent success and a workhorse mentality, Sugano could be the stabilizing presence that helps young pitchers like Grayson Rodriguez and Kyle Bradish continue to grow.

What Sugano Brings to the Table

Sugano’s skills are well-suited for Major League Baseball, with his sharp fastball, breaking balls, and incredible command making him a potential force in the American League. Despite the obvious challenge of transitioning from NPB to MLB, Sugano has proven his ability to adapt and succeed in high-pressure situations.

His 1.67 ERA last season and dominant MVP performance only serve as more evidence that he’s capable of making a smooth transition into MLB play. If Sugano can maintain the same level of production he had in Japan, he will quickly become a key piece in the Orioles’ rotation, potentially playing a big role in a playoff push next season.

Looking Ahead

With the addition of Sugano, the Orioles have made a clear statement that they’re serious about competing in 2024. The team has steadily built up its core, with a mix of young talent and experienced veterans. Sugano, with his accomplished career and leadership, could help further elevate this squad as they aim to make a deeper playoff run next season.

In a division as competitive as the American League East, having a pitcher like Sugano could be the X-factor that separates the Orioles from the pack. If the 35-year-old can adapt quickly to MLB competition, the Orioles could find themselves with one of the most intriguing pitching rotations in the league.

This signing is a big win for the Orioles, one that could have a lasting impact on their future success. As they look to make their mark in the American League, Sugano’s proven track record makes him an exciting addition to their roster and a potential star in the making for Baltimore.