Toronto Blue Jays interested in free agent NPB All-Star Kazuma Okamoto

According to John Heyman of the New York Post, the Blue Jays are interested in six-time NPB All-Star Kazuma Okamoto, who's posting window closes in four weeks' time.

The Blue Jays were among six teams with scouts in the audience at the 2025 Japan Series early in November to watch Okamoto.

Okamoto was mostly a third baseman during his time with the Yomiuri Giants, but he also logged a good deal of time as a first baseman and corner outfielder.

While he wouldn't get much time at first base in Toronto due to Vladimir Guerrero Jr.'s presence, Okamoto's defensive utility undoubtedly has some appeal to a Blue Jays team that likes to mix and match around its lineup.

Third base would probably be Okamoto's primary position in Toronto, yet his ability to also work in the corner outfield could make him something of a right-handed hitting version of Addison Barger, who is expected to continue operating as a third baseman/right fielder depending on what other winter moves the Jays end up completing.

Okamoto has 248 home runs and an outstanding .277/.361/.521 slash line over his career in Japan, though there are always questions about how exactly hitters will adjust in the move from NPB to MLB.

Bo Bichette naturally looms as the biggest question mark hanging over the Blue Jays' infield, as Toronto remains engaged with the former All-Star about a reunion.

Toronto is prepared to be even more aggressive this offseason after coming so close to a World Series title in 2025.

The Blue Jays also have a longstanding interest in trying to establish themselves amongst Japanese players and fans, which has involved failed pursuits of Yoshinobu Yamamoto and Roki Sasaki in the past.