Next Major Leaguers
NPB stars MLB scouts are watching — what makes them intriguing, plus reactions from overseas.
Players to watch
3Teruaki Sato佐藤輝明
Hanshin Tigers · Third baseman
A left-handed power bat that can also defend the hot corner is scarce in MLB. Contact consistency is the question, but his exit velocity and raw pop are tools scouts covet.
Hiromi Ito伊藤大海
Hokkaido Nippon-Ham Fighters · Pitcher (starter)
He has openly voiced his MLB ambitions. As a starter he balances velocity, command and durability, and his international résumé adds to the profile.
Kaima Taira平良海馬
Saitama Seibu Lions · Pitcher
His velocity and arm strength play at the MLB level. Scouts track both his dominant relief strikeout stuff and his adjustment to a starting role.