Shota Morishita森下翔太
Hanshin Tigers · Outfielder
A right-handed middle-of-the-order outfielder for the Hanshin Tigers and a 2022 first-round pick. Clutch hitting and power have him batting cleanup early in his career; he is breaking out in 2026 (.300 with 17 homers).
Why MLB is watching
He is mashing in 2026 (a .952 OPS), with big damage against lefties (a 181 wRC+ vs. LHP the prior year). His name is starting to come up abroad, but there is no concrete MLB move yet — evaluators currently file him under “likely to stay in Japan.” A profile whose stock can rise with more production.
Posting / FA outlook
No posting or move has been announced; any MLB push is still down the road.
Comparable MLB player
Seen by some as a Matt Vierling type — hit and power, with limited defensive value.
This season
- G
- 69
- AVG
- .300
- HR
- 17
- RBI
- 43
- OPS
- .952
As of 2026-06-29 · Source: NPB official