By Will Peralta
In a move that’s got baseball fans buzzing, the Baltimore Orioles have signed 35-year-old Japanese pitcher Tomoyuki Sugano to a one-year, $13 million contract. Yes, you read that right – 35 years old, and a rookie. But don’t let Sugano’s age fool you; this guy’s got game.
With 12 seasons of experience in Nippon Professional Baseball (NPB) under his belt, Sugano boasts an impressive resume. He’s a two-time Sawamura Award winner (Japan’s equivalent of the Cy Young), a two-time league MVP, and an eight-time All-Star. Not too shabby for a “rookie.”
Sugano’s stats are equally impressive. In his 2024 season with the Yomiuri Giants, he went 15-3 with a 1.67 ERA and 111 strikeouts in 156 2/3 innings. His career NPB numbers are just as eye-catching: 136-74 with a 2.43 ERA and 1,585 strikeouts in 1,857 innings.
But what about his age? How does a 35-year-old rookie fit into the Orioles’ plans? Well, Sugano’s experience and skillset make him an attractive addition to the team. He’s got a diverse pitch arsenal, including a four-seam fastball, sinker, cutter, slider, splitter, and curveball. His command is exceptional, and his splitter and slider are his main swing-and-miss pitches.
While Sugano may not be your typical rookie, he’s got the talent and experience to make an impact in the MLB. As the Orioles look to bolster their rotation, Sugano’s signing could prove to be a savvy move. Keep an eye on this unconventional rookie sensation – he’s got a lot to prove.