What to know
- Kazuma Okamoto signed a four-year, $60 million deal with the Toronto Blue Jays after 11 years with Japan’s Yomiuri Giants.
- During a press conference, he revealed that his daughter influenced his choice of team by picking the Blue Jays logo when asked.
- Okamoto expressed admiration for Toronto and called the Blue Jays a “strong” team capable of providing support.
- The six-time NPB All-Star also helped Japan win the 2023 World Baseball Classic, joining the Jays after their 2025 World Series run.
It’s been one week since Toronto Blue Jays’ new Japanese third baseman Kazuma Okamoto arrived in the city, and now the athlete is revealing that it was actually his daughter who influenced his decision to join the team.
Last week, Okamoto signed a four-year deal worth $60 million after an 11-year career in Japan with the Yomiuri Giants.
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On Tuesday, he formally introduced himself to Toronto during a press conference, speaking primarily through a translator.
“Hello, everyone. My name is Kazuma Okamoto. Thank you very much for this opportunity. I am very happy to join the Blue Jays,” he said. “I will work hard every day and do my best for the team. Thank you for your support. Nice to meet you. Go Blue Jays!”
When asked why he chose Toronto over the other 29 MLB teams, Okamoto’s answer was simple: his daughter played a role.
According to Okamoto, he laid out the logos of all 30 MLB teams in front of his daughter and asked her, “Which one do you like the most?” She immediately pointed to the Blue Jays.
Okamoto says that moment stuck with him while choosing where to go.
But it wasn’t just his daughter’s choice that drew him to Toronto. He also expressed admiration for the city and confidence in the Blue Jays, calling them a “strong” team capable of offering significant support.
Okamoto’s signing comes on the heels of the team’s legendary World Series run in 2025.
With his proven track record, including six All-Star selections in Nippon Professional Baseball and helping Japan win the 2023 World Baseball Classic, it’s no surprise that the Blue Jays are welcoming him with open arms.
