Tomoyuki Sugano is finally making his way to Major League Baseball after the Baltimore Orioles signed the star Japanese right-handed pitcher to a one-year, $13 million contract on Monday night. At 35 years old, Sugano is coming off a remarkable MVP season in Japan’s Central League, marking his third MVP win in his career. He spent 12 seasons with the Yomiuri Giants and was posted by the team after the 2020 season, allowing MLB teams to bid for him, though he did not sign at that time.
Sugano’s performance last season was impressive, as he posted a 15-3 record with a 1.67 ERA, walking just 16 batters over 156 2/3 innings. This MVP win follows his previous honors in 2014 and 2020. Sugano also had a successful stint with the Japanese national team during the 2017 World Baseball Classic, where he gave up just three hits in six innings during the semifinal against the United States.
For the Orioles, Sugano’s addition comes amid pitching uncertainties after making the postseason in the last two years. Their ace, Corbin Burnes, is a free agent, and pitchers Kyle Bradish and Tyler Wells both underwent Tommy John surgeries last year. Additionally, Grayson Rodriguez missed time with a lat injury. If Burnes doesn’t return, the Orioles’ starting rotation could consist of Rodriguez, Zach Eflin, and Dean Kremer. It remains unclear how much more the Orioles will add to their rotation this offseason. Sugano is seen as a low-risk, potentially high-reward option, offering an experienced arm with upside, though he has the right to reject any assignment to the minors.
Beyond his $13 million salary, Sugano has the opportunity to earn performance-based bonuses. These include $50,000 for an All-Star selection, $100,000 for winning the Cy Young Award, $75,000 for second place, $50,000 for third place, $50,000 for a Gold Glove, $100,000 for a World Series MVP, and $50,000 for a League Championship Series MVP. At the conclusion of his contract, Sugano will become a free agent once again.
