Blue Jays free agent target: Teruaki Satō

The Toronto Blue Jays are expected to target Japanese slugger Teruaki Satō once he is posted as an international free agent, according to BlueJaysNation writer Cynthia Ryley Delaney. Following a 79-83 record in 2026, Toronto faces clear needs for outfield power. Delaney argues that the 27-year-old Hanshin Tigers star would address the team's lack of slugging after capturing the NPB Triple Crown.

Satō batted .306 with 39 home runs in 2026, following a 40-homer campaign in 2025. Delaney highlights Toronto's recent pursuit of Pacific Rim talent, including signing third baseman Kazuma Okamoto last offseason. Because Okamoto holds down third base, Satō is projected primarily as an outfielder if signed by Toronto.