Angels Eye Japanese Pitcher Sasaki for Potential Major League Leap

This offseason, the baseball world is buzzing about Roki Sasaki, but he's not the only Japanese pitcher making headlines. The 35-year-old Tomoyuki Sugano, a two-time winner of the prestigious Sawamura Award (Japan's equivalent to the Cy Young Award), is also expected to transition to Major League Baseball.

MLB Network insider Jon Paul Morosi has pinpointed the Los Angeles Angels as a team with potential interest in Sugano. During a recent edition of Hot Stove, Morosi shared, "I've heard there is some interest there," hinting at the Angels' pursuit of the seasoned pitcher.

Morosi further compared Sugano to Hiroki Kuroda, a fellow Japanese right-hander who made his MLB debut in his mid-30s. Kuroda enjoyed a successful seven-year career with the Dodgers and Yankees from 2008-2014, boasting a 3.45 ERA and averaging 188 innings per season.

The Angels have been notably active this offseason, seeking to bolster their roster. With a starter ERA of 4.97, ranking 28th in the league last season, the team is in dire need of reliable pitching. Sugano, who posted an impressive 1.67 ERA over 156 2/3 innings with the Yomiuri Giants in 2024, could be the answer to their pitching woes.

Sugano may not have the same high-velocity fastball as Sasaki, but his skill and experience make him a highly coveted asset. His potential move to the Angels would not only bring depth to their pitching rotation but also add a proven performer with a decorated career in Japan.

As the offseason progresses, Sugano’s destination will be one of the most intriguing storylines to follow. With teams like the Angels showing interest, the MLB could soon see another talented Japanese pitcher making waves.

​Keep an eye on this developing story as the Angels and other MLB teams continue to shape their rosters for the upcoming season.