League: NPB Sport: Baseball Country: Japan Category: Scores & Results

Yankees expected to pursue Japanese slugger Teruaki Sato

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Nov 2, 2026, 6:35 PM

Last updated Nov 2, 2026

Yankees expected to pursue Japanese slugger Teruaki Sato

Summary

The New York Yankees aim to strengthen their infield by targeting Teruaki Sato, a 27-year-old Japanese free agent, who is expected to enter the MLB via the posting system next season. Sato, an MVP in the Nippon Professional Baseball League, has an anticipated market value of $180 million for five years. Yankees sources indicate he would primarily play third base, especially with uncertainty surrounding Ryan McMahon's performance and future. Sato has drawn comparisons to White Sox star Munetaka Murakami, noted for his hitting prowess amidst defensive concerns.

Source Links

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By the Numbers

•Teruaki Sato won the NPB MVP with a.306 average and 39 homers last season.
•Sato may replace Ryan McMahon at third base, who struggled in 2026.
•Yankees are also searching for solutions at second base with Chisholm likely departing.
•Sato’s expected contract value is $180 million over five years.
•Ken Rosenthal suggests Sato may also fit as a utility player in the outfield.

Latest Updates

6:35 PMYahoo Sports — Insider: Yankees will ‘be involved’ in market for Japanese slugger

What they're saying

"
Bowden predicts the 27-year-old Sato will land a five-year, $180 million contract. That translates to a $36M AAV for a player who has to play in MLB.
— Yahoo Sports

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Boston Red Sox Chicago White Sox New York Mets New York Yankees NPB Baseball