The Baltimore Orioles made headlines recently with the acquisition of Tomoyuki Sugano, a right-handed pitcher renowned in Nippon Professional Baseball (NPB). This one-year, $13 million contract not only signals the Orioles’ commitment to strengthening their pitching rotation but also showcases their intent to compete at a higher level after back-to-back postseason appearances. The 35-year-old Sugano, a two-time Sawamura Award winner, arrives with an impressive resume, bolstering a team that has been actively searching for rotation reinforcements.
Sugano’s career in Japan speaks volumes about his capabilities on the mound. Over his time with the Yomiuri Giants, he consistently demonstrated elite performance, including an outstanding 1.67 ERA with a 15-3 record across 24 starts in the most recent season. Such statistics not only highlight Sugano’s potential to impact Major League Baseball (MLB) immediately but also emphasize his ability to maintain a high level of performance and consistency, traits that every contending team desperately needs.
Moreover, Sugano’s skills profile reveals a pitcher who has adapted his arsenal for effectiveness. Although his fastball averages around 92 mph, his inclination to rely on off-speed pitches, comprising sliders, cutters, curveballs, and split-fingered fastballs, showcases a strategic approach to tackling hitters. The fact that nearly two-thirds of his pitches this past season were off-speed suggests a high level of baseball acumen.
The Orioles’ pitching roster has experienced considerable upheaval, particularly with the returns of Kyle Bradish and Tyler Wells from elbow surgery. Adding Sugano to the mix—alongside current rotation members like Zach Eflin, Grayson Rodriguez, and Dean Kremer—positions the team closer to having a well-rounded and competitive starting rotation. Given the uncertain status of other potential free agents, including Corbin Burnes, Sugano could step in as a reliable anchor for a rotation that has seen better days.
Furthermore, the offseason has already indicated a rising trend in pitching salaries, making Baltimore’s investment in Sugano appear prudent. As they navigate the complexities of the free-agent market—where deals have already soared, like Max Fried’s jaw-dropping $218 million contract—the Orioles’ decisions reveal an aggressive approach to building a championship-caliber squad, balancing veteran experience with a promising future.
However, Sugano’s transition to MLB is not without its challenges. The Orioles are preparing to modify their field dimensions, especially concerning the left-field wall, potentially affecting pitchers and their strategies. Sugano has predominantly thrived as a groundball pitcher—51.1% ground balls last season—suggesting his pitching style could face new tests in a less forgiving Camden Yards environment.
Tomoyuki Sugano’s acquisition is an enthralling development for the Baltimore Orioles, representing a clear commitment to enhancing their competitive edge. As both he and the team adapt to the challenges of MLB, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see if this strategic move pays dividends on the diamond. With Sugano joining the ranks, the Orioles may very well have set the stage for a notable 2025 season.