Tomoyuki Sugano (Image Credit: Getty Images)
The upcoming 2025 MLB season’s excitement couldn’t stop giving. Following the trade pattern, the Baltimore Orioles signed veteran pitcher Tomoyuki Sugano to a $13-million-one-year contract. The deal took place on Monday night after an eventful Winter Meetings.

The 35-year-old pitcher from Sagamihara, Kanagawa, Japan, brings with him an impressive resume forged over 12 seasons with the Yomiuri Giants in Japan’s NPB. He is widely regarded as one of the premier pitchers in the history of Japanese baseball. Sugano has also earned eight All-Star selections, two Sawamura Awards, and three Central League MVP distinctions to his name.

He has an extraordinary career ERA of 2.45 and has significantly contributed to the Giants with his consistent performance. During the 2024 season, Sugano achieved a 1.67 ERA along with 111 strikeouts and just 16 walks in 156 2/3 innings over 24 starts. These will undoubtedly benefit the Orioles by utilizing their deep pitching capability.

Additionally, his fastball average is around 92 mph, but it’s his unmatched use of a varied pitch arsenal that sets him apart. During the last season, nearly 74% of his pitches were off-speed offerings, including cutters, sliders, splitters, and curveballs.

Tomoyuki Sugano Will Have A Second Venture At MLB

This is not Sugano’s first venture into the league. He previously gained attention during the 2020-21 offseason when Yomiuri posted him for MLB teams. Unfortunately, a deal could not be finalized before the deadline and he remained in Japan for another season. This time around, as an international free agent, there are no posting system restrictions holding him back, allowing the Orioles to secure his services directly.

Sugano previously faced MLB talent when he pitched for Japan in the 2017 World Baseball Classic. Although Japan fell short against the United States in the semifinals, Sugano’s performance—allowing only one unearned run over six innings—was commendable and hinted at his potential to succeed in the majors.

The Orioles’ acquisition of Sugano comes under a strategic approach to their starting rotation. Team officials appear to recognize the importance of adding depth and reliability, particularly with a group of young pitchers that includes promising talents like Grayson Rodriguez and Cade Povich.

Sugano is expected to fit into the mid-to-back end of the rotation, where his experience and ability to eat innings can provide crucial support, especially with injuries sidelining some key players. However, with the Japanese star included, Baltimore’s rotation will have Zach Eflin, Grayson, Dean Kremer, and Povich to the aid.