Toronto Blue Jays among teams sending scouts to Japan to watch Japanese superstars

On Sunday, it was reported the Blue Jays were among six teams with scouts in the audience at the 2025 Japan Series to watch Kazuma Okamoto.

The infielder, who currently plays for the Yomiuri Giants, is set to be posted once the international posting period begins

Other teams that sent scouts or representatives include New York Yankees, Los Angeles Angels, Chicago White Sox, San Diego Padres, and Philadelphia Phillies.

Okamoto is the third known NPB All-Star that will be posted, along with fellow infielder Munetaka Murakami and pitcher Tatsuya Imai. The Blue Jays have seemingly been connected to all three.

Okamoto is a 6X NBP All-Star and has won two Gold Gloves, has been the Central League's home run leader three times, RBI leader twice, and won the Climax Series MVP in 2019.

Toronto doesn't necessarily have a full-time position on the infield; Okamoto is a corner infielder who is expected to move to first base full time at some point in the near future.

While the posting fee and subsequent contract would be a hefty price to pay for a back-up infielder, Okamoto could get regular DH reps in, as well as time at third base.

The Blue Jays could also opt to try Okamoto in left field, where he played 98 innings in 2024. However, Toronto has about six players who can play a decent left field and have much more experience at the position.

With the Blue Jays eyes set on re-signing Bo Bichette as well as looking at players such as Kyle Tucker and Raisel Iglesias, it may come down to a numbers game.

How he fares in the Japan Series may tilt the scales.