Japanese and Korean players who could play in MLB next season

The international pipeline to Major League Baseball continues to bring fresh excitement, and this offseason, several top players from Japan’s Nippon Professional Baseball (NPB) and Korea’s Korea Baseball Organization (KBO) could make the jump to MLB. Following a blockbuster season of international signings, including Yoshinobu Yamamoto, Shota Imanaga, and Shohei Ohtani, more standout players are eyeing the possibility of competing on baseball’s biggest stage.

Roki Sasaki

Right-Handed Pitcher, Chiba Lotte Marines

At just 22 years old, Roki Sasaki is already the hottest young pitcher in Japan. His velocity and control have MLB scouts talking about him as the next Shohei Ohtani-level signing. Known for his 102 mph fastball and devastating splitter, Sasaki brings both talent and youth to the table. If his team, the Chiba Lotte Marines, posts him this offseason, Sasaki will attract significant attention and likely spark a bidding war among teams like the Dodgers, Yankees, and Mets. Due to his age, though, he would fall under MLB’s international amateur signing rules, limiting the size of his initial contract.

Tomoyuki Sugano

Right-Handed Pitcher, Yomiuri Giants

Veteran right-hander Tomoyuki Sugano nearly joined MLB back in 2021, but a deal couldn’t be reached. Now, at 35, Sugano is ready to take another shot. This past season, he went 15-3 with a stellar 1.67 ERA, showing off his impressive control and pitching smarts. Teams looking for a reliable, seasoned starter - like the Padres or Giants - may find Sugano to be an excellent fit. His pinpoint accuracy and experience could lead to a smooth transition into an MLB rotation.

Kazuma Okamoto

First Baseman/Third Baseman, Yomiuri Giants

Kazuma Okamoto’s powerful bat has made him a sensation in Japan, and his home run in the 2023 World Baseball Classic’s gold medal Game won’t be forgotten anytime soon. The 28-year-old slugger has averaged over 30 homers for the past seven seasons, proving he can consistently deliver power from the right side. While it’s uncertain if the Giants will post Okamoto this winter, he’s expected to attract suitors from power-hungry teams, with the Tigers being a possible destination as they’ve expanded their scouting efforts in Asia.

Shinnosuke Ogasawara

Left-Handed Pitcher, Chunichi Dragons

Lefty Shinnosuke Ogasawara might not be as hyped as Sasaki or Sugano, but he’s a solid NPB All-Star with a good track record. While he doesn’t boast the high strikeout rate of some MLB-bound pitchers, Ogasawara has shown versatility and an ability to adjust his approach. Some scouts see him as a strong candidate for the back end of an MLB rotation or as a bullpen option. While it’s unclear when his team will post him, the timing could hinge on how MLB clubs’ offseason pitching priorities shape up.

Hye-Seong Kim

Second Baseman, Kiwoom Heroes

Hye-Seong Kim brings elite defensive skills and a reliable bat to the table, making him an appealing option for MLB teams in need of an infielder. Known for his ability to make contact and his consistency at the plate - batting over .300 for four straight seasons - the 25-year-old has a disciplined, left-handed swing and could excel in an everyday role or as a utility player. The Dodgers, Red Sox, Giants, and Mariners are all reportedly interested, with the Dodgers already familiar with Kim after seeing him in action during the Seoul Series in March.

Pitchers from KBO

James Naile, Kyle Hart, Charlie Barnes, Enmanuel De Jesus, and Aaron Wilkerson

While Japanese pitchers typically draw more attention, several former MLB arms now thriving in the KBO are on scouts’ radars for a potential return. James Naile, for instance, led the KBO in ERA, transforming his career after a stint as a reliever with the Cardinals. Kyle Hart, Charlie Barnes, and Aaron Wilkerson also showed impressive numbers in KBO’s hitter-friendly environment, which could bode well for their chances back in MLB.

Naile’s standout performance for the Kia Tigers in the Korean Series and his evolution as a starter are especially notable. For teams that miss out on the top free-agent pitchers, these KBO stars could be effective and affordable alternatives.