Mariners must jump at Teruaki Sato after $80M contract projection, Yankees disinterest

Sydney Jones of Sodo Mojo argues that the Seattle Mariners should pursue NPB star Teruaki Sato this offseason. While Jim Bowden of The Athletic originally projected a $180 million deal, MLB Trade Rumors recently projected a five-year, $80 million contract. Jones believes this significantly lower projection places Sato within Seattle's budget, especially with the New York Yankees reportedly uninterested in pursuing the slugger.

Sato hit .306 with 39 home runs for the Hanshin Tigers in 2026. Although defensive questions linger around his play at third base, Jones suggests Sato could also feature in the outfield or rotate with infielders like Josh Naylor, Colt Emerson, and Cole Young to boost Seattle's offense.