The Los Angeles Angels have been among the most active teams this offseason, signing starting pitcher Kyle Hendricks, catcher Travis d’Arnaud, and infielder Kevin Newman, while also trading for outfielder Jorge Soler.
Now, the Angels are reportedly eyeing another addition, showing interest in Japanese pitcher Tomoyuki Sugano, according to MLB Network insider Jon Morosi.
“I’ve heard there is some interest there,” Morosi mentioned during MLB Network’s “Hot Stove” show on Monday.
While the signing of Hendricks has already bolstered their rotation, adding Sugano could bring additional veteran leadership to support the Angels’ young pitching staff. Securing Sugano would further demonstrate the team’s determination to contend for a postseason spot in the potentially wide-open AL West following their aggressive offseason moves.
Sugano, who was posted in 2020 and attracted interest from several MLB teams, ultimately returned to the Yomiuri Giants of Nippon Professional Baseball after not reaching a deal.
Tomoyuki Sugano’s fit with the Los Angeles Angels
At 35 years old, Sugano, a 12-year NPB veteran, is widely regarded as one of the most accomplished pitchers in Japanese baseball history. His impressive résumé includes eight NPB All-Star selections, two Sawamura Awards (Japan’s equivalent to the Cy Young), two Central League MVP titles, and four league ERA crowns.
Despite his storied career, many believed his window to play in MLB had closed. However, Sugano has revitalized his stock this season, boasting a remarkable 1.67 ERA across 24 starts.
The free-agent market for a 35-year-old rookie pitcher is largely uncharted territory. Yet, the recent success of Shota Imanaga, who excelled as a 31-year-old MLB rookie after transitioning from Japan, may encourage teams to take a chance on Sugano.
With his extraordinary six-pitch repertoire and outstanding command, Sugano could slot in alongside Tyler Anderson at the front of the Angels’ rotation. He would bring valuable veteran experience to a staff that includes promising young arms like 23-year-old Jack Kochanowicz, 25-year-old Reid Detmers, and 26-year-old Jose Soriano, complementing Anderson and Hendricks.
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