Phillies and Yankees Target Japanese Four-Time All-Star as Infield Power Option
The Philadelphia Phillies and New York Yankees are both eyeing Japanese slugger Teruaki Sato as a potential offseason addition amid a thin domestic infield free-agent market.
Philadelphia and New York are reportedly scouting Japanese infielder Teruaki Sato, a four-time NPB All-Star, as a possible solution to a shortage of power hitters at the infield positions. The 27-year-old, who stars for the Hanshin Tigers, could be acquired via the NPB posting system during the upcoming offseason. The Phillies might use him to fill the void left by pending free agent Alec Bohm, while the Yankees may see him as an upgrade over Jazz Chisholm Jr. Other clubs, including the Mets, Dodgers and Mets, have also been linked to Sato, reflecting a broader market weakness where players like Bo Bichette, Jazz Chisholm Jr. and Luis Arraez dominate the high-profile options.
Despite the buzz, no team has formally committed, and the negotiations remain months away. If the domestic market stays thin, Sato could become one of the most sought-after international prospects this winter.
Why it matters
A top Japanese power hitter could reshape the Phillies' and Yankees' lineups if domestic options remain limited.
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