▲ Teruaki Sato, the Hanshin Tigers infielder who applied for the MLB posting system
Teruaki Sato, the star infielder for the Hanshin Tigers who captured the 2026 Nippon Professional Baseball Central League Triple Crown, is advancing to Major League Baseball (MLB).
The Hanshin Tigers announced on October 19 that they have approved Sato's application for the MLB posting system.
After making his debut in 2021, Sato secured a starting role that same year by hitting 24 home runs.
In the 2025 season, he claimed the Central League Most Valuable Player (MVP) award after leading the league in home runs (40) and RBIs (102). This season, he posted a .306 batting average, 106 RBIs, and 39 home runs to secure the Triple Crown, practically locking in his second consecutive MVP award.
Having dominated the Japanese stage, Sato will begin the posting process and have 45 days to negotiate contracts with all 30 MLB clubs.
MLB.com reported, "As a young player with exceptional skills, Sato will be one of the most sought-after hitters this offseason," adding that "the New York Mets, New York Yankees, Los Angeles Dodgers, and Philadelphia Phillies have shown interest."
Sato's primary position is third base, and he is also highly regarded for his defensive skills, having won a Nippon Professional Baseball Gold Glove in the 2025 season.
He has also appeared in 262 games as an outfielder, making him a versatile option who can play multiple positions.
(Photo: AP, Yonhap News)
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