Kazuma Okamoto ties Shohei Ohtani's rookie home run record
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 12, 2026, 11:00 PM
Last updated Jul 12, 2026
Kazuma Okamoto of the Toronto Blue Jays hit his 22nd home run during a game against the San Diego Padres, matching the record set by Shohei Ohtani for most home runs by a Japanese rookie in MLB history. Okamoto's homer, a three-run shot, helped the Blue Jays establish a lead during their ongoing West Coast road trip. He acknowledged Ohtani's unique talent following the accomplishment, stating he aspires to reach Ohtani's level. With games remaining in the season, Okamoto has a chance to set a new record for Japanese rookies.
- •Okamoto hit his 22nd home run, tying Ohtani's rookie record.
- •The three-run shot gave the Blue Jays a lead against the Padres.
- •Okamoto has emerged as a key player for Toronto this season.
- •He expressed admiration for Ohtani, calling him 'the unicorn'.
- •Okamoto has the opportunity to break the rookie home run record.
- 11:00 PMYahoo Sports — Blue Jays’ New $60 Million Star Sends 3-Word Message On Dethroning Dodgers’ Ohtani
"The Toronto Blue Jays’ Kazuma Okamoto sent an honest message about the Los Angeles Dodgers’ superstar.
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