Yusei Kikuchi reveals secret to Kazuma Okamoto about Toronto Blue Jays manager John Schneider
Photo credit: Shi Davidi - https://x.com/ShiDavidi
Toronto Blue Jays third baseman Kazuma Okamoto caught up with his old buddy Yusei Kikuchi ahead of the clubs matchup with the Los Angeles Angels on Monday.
In a pre-game conversation with Sportsnet’s Hazel Mae and Shi Davidi, the two Japanese players discussed adjusting to life in Major League Baseball and what it’s like playing in Toronto.
Kikuchi, who spent the 2022–2024 seasons with the Toronto Blue Jays, offered Okamoto some advice on settling into the city, including a few restaurant recommendations. He also spoke highly of the passionate fan base in Canada.
One lighthearted moment stood out from their conversation. Kikuchi admitted he jokingly warned Kazuma Okamoto before meeting Blue Jays manager John Schneider that he had a “scary face”, before quickly reassuring him that Schneider is actually a “nice guy.”
Yusei Kikuchi told me and @shidavidi that he was the person who jokingly told Okamoto that John Schneider has a "scary face" but to not worry because he was "actually a nice guy." Kikuchi gave Okamoto restaurant recos in Toronto, and raved about how "very nice" the fans are.
Blue Jays won't face Kikuchi, Okamoto turning a corner
Fortunately for Toronto, they won’t have to face Kikuchi in this series, as the left-hander has been in strong form to begin the 2026 season.
In his most recent start against the San Diego Padres, Kikuchi delivered six scoreless innings, allowing four hits and one walk while striking out eight in a no-decision.
It marked his longest outing of the season, his first scoreless appearance, and tied his season-high in strikeouts.
Meanwhile, Okamoto appears to be finding his rhythm at the plate. After a hot start followed by a prolonged slump, he’s begun to turn things around.
He played a key role in Sunday’s 10–4 win over the Arizona Diamondbacks, recording a home run, double, single, walk, and three RBIs.
The Blue Jays home run jacket looked good on Kazuma Okamoto 😮💨
The Blue Jays will look for that momentum to continue as they take on left-hander Reid Detmers at Angel Stadium in Anaheim.
First pitch is scheduled for 9:38 p.m. ET on Sportsnet.
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