DUNEDIN, Fla. -- Oh, so that’s what it could look like.
Kazuma Okamoto’s first home run in a Blue Jays uniform was majestic, a 431-foot blast to dead center that the wind didn’t want to let go of in Toronto's 4-3 loss to New York on Monday. It was a no-doubter off the bat and smacked off the top half of the batter’s eye, an area typically reserved for Vladimir Guerrero Jr.
“I’ve been working hard this spring and doing a lot of cage work, a lot of live BP and talking to the coaches,” Okamoto said through interpreter Yusuke Oshima. “I want to be in good shape and be ready when the season starts, so I’m just glad I got the first one out of the way.”
Waiting for Okamoto at the top of the dugout steps was Vladdy. The two have already become close, spending time together in the same BP groups and spending extra time on defense at first base.
“Seeing their reaction, it just made me want to hit more for the team,” Okamoto said.
The Blue Jays knew Okamoto had power when they signed him to a four-year, $60 million deal out of Japan, but it’s different to see that up close, even in the early days of batting practice over at the Blue Jays’ complex. Okamoto hit 30-plus home runs in six consecutive seasons with the Yomiuri Giants and peaked with 41 in 2023.
Teammates have already raved about Okamoto’s swing, with Ernie Clement calling it “one of the smoothest right-handed swings you're ever going to see.”
This is what the Blue Jays need from Okamoto in his rookie season, offensive upside and power. Yes, replacing Bo Bichette is a team effort, but Okamoto is the simplest path to doing that. There’s expected to be an adjustment period while Okamoto learns an entire league full of new pitchers, but the Blue Jays have been optimistic that this smooth, simple swing will help that transition.
“He has a really good flow,” hitting coach David Popkins said. “He has the ability to adjust and hit off his lead leg. He has power. He can really do a lot of things. There’s always a bit of an adjustment period timing-wise, but he’s looked great so far. I love the way he works. I’m looking forward to seeing him loosen up and letting it rip.”
Okamoto is expected to play again Wednesday and Thursday before he travels to join Team Japan for the World Baseball Classic.