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Kazuma Okamoto Crushes First Blue Jays Home Run in Spring Training

Toronto signed him to anchor third base after years of power in Japan.

Overview

  • The 29-year-old launched a 431-foot, two-run shot to dead center off Mets reliever Clay Holmes on a 1-2 sweeper in Dunedin.
  • The homer opened the scoring in Toronto’s 4-3 preseason loss to New York and marked his first long ball with the club.
  • Hitting coach David Popkins praised his smooth swing and power, while noting a typical timing adjustment to MLB pitching.
  • Toronto added Okamoto on a four-year, $60 million deal after 11 NPB seasons that featured six consecutive 30-plus homer years and a 41-homer peak in 2023.
  • Expected to play primarily at third base, he earned upbeat reviews from teammates as the Blue Jays continue their spring evaluations.