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The Los Angeles Angels have made some moves this offseason, but haven’t done anything that shows they’re serious about contending. However, that could change with one signing.
According to Fansided’s Zachary Rotman, the Angels could sign NPB superstar Kazuma Okamoto, as he could become the third baseman they need, and the contact hitter.
“It's anyone's best guess as to when Coulombe and Realmuto will actually sign, but Kazuma Okamoto has a concrete deadline to pay attention to. He must reach a deal by Jan. 4 at 5 p.m. ET or else he'll return to Japan. He could wait until the last second, but there's reason to believe he'll have his destination picked before the new year, knowing that the deadline comes soon after…If there are two things the Los Angeles Angels need, it's more contact hitting and a respectable third baseman. Okamoto checks both of those boxes. The Angels have had success with Japanese free agents in the past (that Shohei Ohtani guy was pretty good), and Okamoto shouldn't break the bank. Los Angeles has been linked to him pretty heavily, and would be wise to sign him,” Rotman wrote.
In 11 NPB seasons, Okamoto has slashed .277/.361/.521/.882 with 212 doubles, 248 home runs, and 717 RBI in 1074 games played. His contact ability would be great for the Halos, and overall, he would be leagues better than Anthony Rendon.
Also, he wouldn’t cost that much for the Angels, who are reluctant to hand out huge deals. He’s projected to receive a four-year, $64 million deal, which is well within the Angels’ budget.
If the Angels want to show they are serious about trying to contend, this is the move to make. Hopefully, they get on it soon, as there will be other suitors who want his talents as well.
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