Japanese star Teruaki Sato gets posted early in MLB free agency intrigue

One of Japan’s biggest stars, and a top free agent target this winter, is a step closer to the major leagues.Third baseman Teruaki Sato, coming off a historic season with Nippon Professional Baseball’s Hanshin Tigers, will officially be posted, giving MLB teams a 45-day window to negotiate a contract with him, according to Japanese outlet Sponichi Annex.Tigers general manager Satoshi Shimamura confirmed the club’s intention to make Sato available via the posting system, giving him time to ink a contract before the looming MLB lockout.“I am grateful to the team for respecting my wishes,” Sato said in a statement.“I truly enjoyed the days I spent with my teammates while playing for the Tigers, and I am sincerely grateful for the warm support from the fans.

I ask for your continued support.”Sato is expected to travel to the United States in November to meet with interested teams, per Yahoo Japan.The 27-year-old slashed an outstanding .306/.383/.609 with 39 homers and 106 RBIs, becoming the ninth player in NPB history to win the triple crown.Sato became the first player since now-White Sox star Munetaka Murakami (2022) to secure NPB’s triple crown honors, Hanshin’s first Japanese-born to win the award and the first Tigers player since Randy Bass (1986).The 6-foot-1, 207-pound Sato’s incredible campaign followed a 2025 in which he hit 40 home runs and 102 RBIs en route to Central League MVP honors.Primarily a third baseman, Sato — who made an appearance in right field during the 2026 World Baseball Classic with Samurai Japan — could also follow Murakami in shifting full-time to first base.While the left-handed swinging Sato is expected to command league-wide interest, he will be a prominent target for both New York teams.The Post’s Jon Heyman reported in August that the Mets are interested in Sato as a first base target in the wake of Pete Alonso’s departure and disappointing production from the position in 2026.After another early playoff ex...