The New York Yankees have been emerging as a potential front-runner to acquire one of Japan’s top international stars Teruaki Sato.
The 27-year-old lefty slugger is floating in rumors, and the Yankees haven’t escaped the conversation.
Although an official deal has yet to be made, an MLB writer revealed his projection for a hypothetical Sato-Yankees deal.
Latest Yankees Projection Uncovers Potential Sato Deal
Per Christopher Kline of FanSided, Sato could be gearing up for a three-year, $75 million ($25 million AAV) deal.
“Sato’s left-handed power and upside at 27 years old could mean his market flourishes,” he wrote. “But, given the baked-in gambles that come with signing an international free agent, he could end up getting lowballed, much like Murakami. A three-year, $75 million contract gives Sato a nice payday upfront while still hedging against potential struggles with a short-term framework. The Yankees need an infield slugger and have the money to roll the dice, so to speak, on Sato’s immense talent.”
While playing with the Hanshin Tigers this season, he slashed .306/.383/.609 with a .991 OPS and 39 homers through 143 games.
He smacked 40 doubles, three triples and reeled in 106 RBIs.
As noted by Michael Clair of MLB.com on Oct. 15, “Our scout really liked Sato, calling him a ‘big left-handed bat,’ who ‘can hit in big situations.’ He sees him best as an outfielder instead of at the hot corner or a move over to first base, ‘but there’s some versatility over there.'”
He added, “With the success of Munetaka Murakami and Kazuma Okamoto this past season, he has faith that ‘the bat will carry over.’ There will be plenty of interest from MLB teams should the Hanshin Tigers post him.”
This is a player who could bring immense value to New York’s already high-ceiling lineup.
For now, we are left to play the dreaded waiting game.
As soon as the World Series ends, fans across the league can expect to see chaos unfold from afar.
Where Do the Yankees Stand Right Now?
After facing postseason elimination when the Tampa Bay Rays knocked them out of the ALDS, it became clear just how much work New York would need to put in during the offseason.
They’re far from being in the worst position, but they’re not quite squared away, either.
With several impending free agents on the verge of catching the next flight out, the ballclub could be left with noticeable gaps.
But when one door closes, another opens.
The Yankees have plenty of opportunities to bolster their roster by making strategic moves in the coming months.
Perhaps Sato will become a part of their future.
New York Yankees’ Projected Deal Revealed for International Superstar