The San Diego Padres, Pittsburgh Pirates, Seattle Mariners, Los Angeles Angels, and Boston Red Sox seem to be competing.
Although several teams have expressed interest, those five teams are the most likely places for the Japanese slugger to end up.
The right-handed hitter has several suitors, according to MLB.com’s Mark Feinsand.
“Okamoto, who is thought to be a better defender than the younger Murakami, has been linked to the Pirates, Red Sox, Padres, Mariners, and Angels,” Feinsand said. “He has more clubs to choose from because he could actually play first or third base in the Majors.”
He makes sense for Boston and San Diego because of his defensive versatility.
Okamoto gives the Padres a player who can bring an impact bat without worrying about his position.
He would offer San Diego lineup versatility while maintaining his superior offensive abilities, whether he was positioned at first or third base.
Depending on what transpires with Alex Bregman, Boston’s involvement makes the most sense.
Even after acquiring Willson Contreras, the Red Sox have been linked to a number of players to fill either corner infield position, and Okamoto is a good match for either role.
This may depend on what he wants to do as both teams have an opportunity to compete and win.
Because California is close to Japan, it might be advantageous for the Padres in this situation.
