Japanese star Teruaki Sato posted for MLB free agency

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 20 Oct, 05:58 · Archive

Hanshin Tigers third baseman Teruaki Sato, winner of Japan's triple crown, has been posted for MLB teams to sign.

Hanshin Tigers third baseman Teruaki Sato has been officially posted, allowing MLB teams a 45-day window to negotiate a contract with him. The move gives the Japanese star time to complete a deal before the looming MLB lockout.

Sato, 27, had a historic 2024 season with the Tigers, winning the Central League triple crown with a .306 average, 39 home runs and 106 RBIs. He became the ninth player in NPB history to win the triple crown and the first since Munetaka Murakami in 2022. The achievement marked the Tigers' first triple crown winner since Randy Bass in 1986.

Sato said in a statement: 'I am grateful to the team for respecting my wishes. I truly enjoyed the days I spent with my teammates while playing for the Tigers, and I am sincerely grateful for the warm support from the fans.' He is expected to travel to the United States in November to meet with interested teams. Sato is 6 feet 1 inch tall and weighs 207 pounds; he also won Central League MVP honours in 2025, hitting 40 home runs with 102 RBIs.

How it is being reported

• Top NPB slugger Teruaki Sato set to test MLB marketTeruaki Sato, the reigning Central League MVP and presumptive favorite for the award this year, won the CL Triple Crown this season.The Japan Times · 20 Oct, 05:28
• Japanese star Teruaki Sato gets posted early in MLB free agency intrigueOne of Japan's biggest stars, and a top free agent target this winter, is a step closer to the major leagues.New York Post · 19 Oct, 17:35

In this story: Teruaki Sato · Hanshin Tigers · Munetaka Murakami · Randy Bass

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