Yoshi Tsutsugo, an outfielder and first baseman the Texas Rangers signed in January to a minor-league contract, arrived in Surprise on Sunday after visa troubles delayed his departure from Japan.
Both The Athletic and MLB.com reported his arrival on Sunday morning.
Tsutsugo joins a crowded competition for a few spots left on the Opening Day roster. Based on starts in spring games, Robbie Grossman appears to be on track to be the starting left fielder.
That would unseat incumbent rookie Bubba Thompson, but there appears to be room on the roster to earn a role as the fourth outfielder. Thompson has made starts in center field this spring.
The Rangers have also worked players like Brad Miller at first base to create depth behind starter Nathaniel Lowe, who played 157 games a year ago. The Rangers have plans to work Josh Smith there during spring games as well.
The Rangers likely have three or four utility spots left, as most of the everyday spots on the field appear sewn up, barring injuries.
Tsutsugo played 50 games with the Pittsburgh Pirates last season, batting .171/.249/.229/.478 with two home runs and 19 RBI.
Since he made his Major League debut in 2020, he’s played with three different teams — Tampa Bay Rays, Los Angeles Dodgers and Pirates.
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