NPB Triple Crown winner Teruaki Sato cleared to enter MLB posting system
The Hanshin Tigers announced they will post infielder Teruaki Sato, allowing all 30 MLB clubs a 45-day negotiating period to try to sign him. Sato, who will be 28 next season, won the Central League Triple Crown in 2026 with a .306 average, 39 home runs, and 106 RBIs, and is expected to earn his second straight Central League MVP. Because he is older than 25, no international bonus pool restrictions apply to his deal, and Hanshin will collect a release fee tied to the value of whatever contract he signs. According to the report, the Mets, Yankees, Dodgers, and Phillies have already been linked to Sato, who also won a Golden Glove for his defense in 2025.
Once Sato has officially entered the posting system , all 30 MLB teams will have a 45-day window to negotiate with him.
Why it matters
For brands: Teams such as the Mets, Yankees, Dodgers, and Phillies have already been connected to Sato, making him a marquee offseason target.
For media: Sato's posting triggers a high-profile, multi-team pursuit that is expected to be a dominant offseason storyline across baseball coverage.
For athletes: Sato faces no international bonus pool cap on his contract, meaning he can sign a full-market deal with any of the 30 MLB clubs.
Read the full story at MLB.com news
Sources
- MLB.com news · Max Ralph: NPB MVP, Triple Crown winner Sato to enter MLB posting system
- The Athletic: Japanese slugger Teruaki Sato to be posted this offseason