The New York Mets could be preparing for another major move in the international market, with the club reportedly showing interest in Japanese slugger Teruaki Sato.
According to Jon Heyman of the New York Post, the Mets are among the teams expected to pursue Sato if the Hanshin Tigers decide to post him for MLB teams this offseason. The Yankees, Dodgers and Phillies are also reportedly interested.
Sato, 27, has already established himself as one of Japan’s most dangerous power hitters. He has recorded 155 home runs across 793 career games in Japan, while continuing to produce at an impressive level during the 2026 season.
The slugger has taken another step forward this year, posting a batting average above .300 with an OPS over 1.000 while providing significant power and run production for the Tigers. He also won the Central League MVP Award in 2025 after hitting 40 home runs with 102 RBIs.
The Mets’ interest should come as little surprise. New York has already been scouting Sato, with reports indicating that Mets representatives have watched him in Japan on multiple occasions.
Sato’s versatility could make him particularly appealing. He has experience at third base and in the outfield, although his potential transition to first base has also been discussed as MLB clubs evaluate where he would fit best defensively.
For the Mets, adding a proven Japanese power hitter could address a significant offensive need while giving the club another middle-of-the-order threat. However, there is still a major step between reported interest and an actual agreement.
Everything could depend on whether Hanshin makes Sato available through the posting system. If that happens, New York appears positioned to be one of the teams involved in what could become a highly competitive bidding process.
For now, Mets fans can view the development as an encouraging sign that the organization is already looking for ways to reshape its roster for 2027.
And if Sato eventually makes the move to Major League Baseball, the Mets may have a legitimate opportunity to add one of Japan’s most productive young sluggers to their lineup.
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