The offseason is heating up, and one name that’s generating buzz is Tomoyuki Sugano. After a stellar career in Japan, the 35-year-old right-hander is finally making the leap to Major League Baseball, and the Los Angeles Angels are reportedly among the teams interested in signing him.
Sugano’s impressive 2024 season, where he posted a 1.67 ERA, has many fans wondering if he can replicate that success in the big leagues. But here’s the kicker: the Angels have a notorious history of being cautious with long-term contracts for pitchers. Given Sugano’s age and the Angels' recent moves, could this be the perfect match for a short-term deal?
Let’s dive into the discussion. Do you think Sugano can transition successfully to MLB, or will the adjustment prove too challenging? What are your thoughts on the Angels’ strategy of targeting older pitchers? Is this a smart move to bolster their rotation, or are they setting themselves up for disappointment?
Also, with the Angels’ rotation looking thin, how do you see Sugano fitting in alongside the likes of Kyle Hendricks and Jose Soriano? Will he be the ace they desperately need, or just another piece in a puzzle that’s yet to come together?
Share your predictions, insights, and any experiences you have with international players making the jump to MLB. Let’s get the conversation rolling!
The offseason is heating up, and one name that’s generating buzz is Tomoyuki Sugano. After a stellar career in Japan, the 35-year-old right-hander is finally making the leap to Major League Baseball, and the Los Angeles Angels are reportedly among the teams interested in signing him.
Sugano’s impressive 2024 season, where he posted a 1.67 ERA, has many fans wondering if he can replicate that success in the big leagues. But here’s the kicker: the Angels have a notorious history of being cautious with long-term contracts for pitchers. Given Sugano’s age and the Angels' recent moves, could this be the perfect match for a short-term deal?
Let’s dive into the discussion. Do you think Sugano can transition successfully to MLB, or will the adjustment prove too challenging? What are your thoughts on the Angels’ strategy of targeting older pitchers? Is this a smart move to bolster their rotation, or are they setting themselves up for disappointment?
Also, with the Angels’ rotation looking thin, how do you see Sugano fitting in alongside the likes of Kyle Hendricks and Jose Soriano? Will he be the ace they desperately need, or just another piece in a puzzle that’s yet to come together?
Share your predictions, insights, and any experiences you have with international players making the jump to MLB. Let’s get the conversation rolling!