Tomoyuki Sugano not ready for NPB return

Tomoyuki Sugano is not ready to close the book on his major league career.

According to a report from Yahoo Japan shared by MLB Trade Rumors, Sugano has no plans to return to Nippon Professional Baseball. Sugano also stated that he has been in contact with several teams and is waiting for their offers.

Sugano had a mediocre first season in the majors in 2025. He posted a 4.64 ERA and a 1.331 WHiP over his 157 innings with the Baltimore Orioles, striking out 106 batters with 36 walks. Sugano also led the American League with 33 homers allowed as he struggled to keep major league hitters from teeing off on his arsenal.

Tomoyuki Sugano could be a viable major league option in the right setting

Sugano has been one of the better pitchers of his generation in Japan. An eight-time All-Star, Sugano has won two Sawamura awards (the NPB version of the Cy Young) and is a three-time Central League MVP. The 2018 Triple Crown winner has a 136-74 record with a 2.43 ERA and a 1.031 WHiP over his 1857 NPB innings, with 1585 strikeouts and 347 walks.

Sugano is no longer the pitcher he was at his peak, but he could be a viable option in the back of a major league rotation. He took the ball every fifth day, making 30 starts for the Orioles. That durability would fit well on a team with injury concerns or a younger rotation.

Likewise, a move to a different ballpark could help Sugano's performance. Oriole Park had the second-highest park factor for home runs (121 - average is 100) in the majors in 2025. A team such as the Marlins, Giants or Rays could be a perfect fit for Sugano in 2026.