How Kazuma Okamoto can improve the Blue Jays' third-base situation

Kazuma Okamoto's offensive upside

Last season, the Blue Jays did not have an everyday third baseman. They utilized Addison Barger and Ernie Clement. Okamoto is considered an above-average defender who will stabilize the position that hasn't been fluid since Matt Chapman was on the team. 

This allows for Barger to be utilized in right field, which strengthens the depth of the roster. But alongside his defensive capabilities, Okamoto is projected to provide power with home runs. 

Okamoto recorded a career high of 41 home runs in 2023 and recorded six consecutive seasons where he hit 30 or more home runs from 2018 to 2023. He is a unique power hitter who sustains a low strikeout-to-walk rate. Essentially, this meshes well with the Blue Jays' offensive strategy of putting the ball in play, which was something that was effectively put in place last season with the help of hitting coach David Popkins. 

Defensive flare 

Okamoto has showcased a solid range and instincts in camp this season, adding to his impact. This will translate into the regular season, where he is anticipated to make difficult plays. He is known for possessing better defensive alignment and fewer errors at the cornerstone position.

Okamoto is recognized as a plus fielder with a 4.5 UZR in 3,762.2 innings at third base since 2021. He's able to read plays well by reacting to them quickly, but he needs to improve on his lateral range. 

He's also known for having a good arm and making accurate plays from various standpoints in the position. FanGraphs rates him as a reliable defensive player. 

While Vladimir Guerrero Jr. is expected to remain at first base, if ever needed, he has extensive experience in that position. Overall, he is expected to transition well into MLB. 

MLB has had many players adapt from the NPB league who have displayed strong talent, such as Shohei Ohtani, Yoshinobu Yamamoto, Kodai Senga, Shota Imanaga and Masataka Yoshida. 

Okamoto is regarded as a steady, reliable presence at third base, with skills expected to translate well to MLB.