Yankees to meet 18-year-old Shoki Oda ahead of free agency

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Nov 8, 2026, 5:00 AM

Last updated Nov 8, 2026

Yankees to meet 18-year-old Shoki Oda ahead of free agency
Summary

The New York Yankees are set to meet with 18-year-old Shoki Oda, a promising pitcher from Japan, who plans to declare for the international free agent signing period. Oda gained attention for his exceptional performance during the 2026 Koshien National High School Baseball Championship, showcasing a fastball recorded at 98 mph. The Yankees have been exploring opportunities in Japan to strengthen their roster, following the Dodgers' recent successes in that market. This meeting marks a significant step as Oda seeks to bypass Nippon Professional Baseball and enter MLB as an international free agent.

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By the Numbers
  • •Oda had a breakout performance at the 2026 Koshien Championship.
  • •He intends to opt out of pitching in NPB.
  • •MLB international free agent signing period begins January 15.
  • •Yankees Triple-A affiliate rebrands to Scranton/Wilkes-Barre Highlanders.
  • •Jacob Young signs extension with the Nationals, taking him off Yankees' trade target list.
Latest Updates
  • 5:00 AMYahoo Sports — Around the Empire: Bombers to meet with 18-year-old NPB ace
What they're saying
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Yankees to meet with Shoki Oda; The Highlanders are back; Trade target signs extension; Kelenic elects free agency

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