Kazuma Okamoto Hits First Home Run with Blue Jays
On Monday, Kazuma Okamoto hit a two-run home run during a pre-season game, marking his first home run in a Toronto Blue Jays jersey. The game ended in a 4-3 loss for the Blue Jays against the New York Mets.
Okamoto, who made his debut on Saturday, launched the home run in the bottom of the second inning off Mets pitcher Clay Holmes. The ball traveled 431 feet with an exit velocity of 103.4 m.p.h., opening the scoring for Toronto.
Why It Matters
The 29-year-old Japanese slugger was signed by the Blue Jays to a four-year, $60 million contract on January 4, after an impressive 11-year career with the Yomiuri Giants in Nippon Professional Baseball (NPB). During his time in Japan, Okamoto achieved a .277 batting average, hit 248 home runs, and recorded 717 RBIs.
His performance in spring training is crucial as the Blue Jays aim to integrate him into their lineup, where he is currently positioned at third base and batting sixth.
What’s Next
Following the game against the Mets, the Blue Jays are set to host the New York Yankees on Tuesday. Additionally, Okamoto is expected to join Team Japan next month for the World Baseball Classic, where they will defend their title.
