The Baltimore Orioles have signed right-handed pitcher Tomoyuki Sugano to a one-year contract valued at $13 million, as announced on Monday night. This acquisition propels Sugano, one of Japan’s most accomplished pitchers in recent years, into a critical role within the Orioles’ pitching rotation, which has been seeking stability and depth. As a two-time Sawamura Award winner—Japan’s equivalent of the prestigious Cy Young Award—Sugano’s impressive track record in Nippon Professional Baseball (NPB) speaks volumes about his capabilities on the mound.
At 35 years old, Sugano’s journey to Major League Baseball has been marked by anticipation and speculation. After being posted by the Yomiuri Giants in December 2020, Sugano did not make the leap to MLB, opting instead to return to Japan where he had another outstanding season. His performances in 2023 reminisce of his Sawamura-winning seasons, wherein he achieved an impressive 15-3 record alongside a remarkable 1.67 ERA over 156.2 innings, demonstrating not only his talent but also his durability as a pitcher.
Pitching Style and Strategy
What sets Sugano apart is his multifaceted pitching arsenal. While his fastball averages around 92 mph, he extensively utilizes off-speed pitches—comprising sliders, cutters, curveballs, and split-fingered fastballs—to keep batters guessing. In fact, nearly two-thirds of his deliveries in 2023 were of the off-speed variety. This strategy not only adds layers to his approach on the mound but also highlights his adaptability in facing various hitters, which will be essential in the transition to the competitive landscape of Major League Baseball.
Moreover, Sugano tends to induce a high rate of ground balls—51.1% last season—making him an ideal candidate for a team that aims to strengthen its defensive capabilities. His ability to generate ground balls could prove invaluable at Camden Yards, especially with recent adjustments to the field dimensions aimed at mitigating home run rates.
The Orioles’ Pitching Needs and Potential
The Orioles, coming off successive playoff appearances, appear determined to bolster their pitching lineup. With the uncertainty surrounding past pitchers recovering from elbow surgeries, Sugano joins a rotation that currently includes names like Zach Eflin and Grayson Rodriguez. The front office is actively exploring options to solidify its staff, continuing to show interest in re-signing former ace Corbin Burnes, whose potential price tag suggests a significant investment aligned with the franchise’s newly energized financial outlook.
Under the ownership of David Rubenstein, who acquired the team in August, the Orioles look poised to reshape their competitive landscape. With Sugano on board, alongside a substantial financial commitment towards improving their roster, Baltimore appears ready to make a serious push in the upcoming 2025 season.
Overall, the signing of Tomoyuki Sugano represents a calculated risk for the Orioles. While his transition from NPB to MLB could present challenges, his proven track record and distinct skill set offer promising potential to enhance the team’s competitive edge. As the Orioles continue to navigate the turbulent waters of free agency, Sugano’s arrival may well signify a pivotal moment in their pursuit of sustained success in Major League Baseball.
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