Yankees could begin to solve rotation issues with addition of Japanese starter

The Yankees could be eyeing a foreign option for their starting rotation.

Anyone down for some Masahiro Tanaka Lite in the starting rotation for 2021? Though we for certain want the right-hander back with the New York Yankees, it appears as if general manager Brian Cashman might have a potential backup plan in mind in case things don’t work out.

According to the latest free agency buzz, the Yomiuri Giants could be posting starting pitcher Tomoyuki Sugano in the next few days and the Bombers are among the teams interested in the right-hander, who’s pretty much been a legend of sorts in his home country.

MLB insider Jon Morosi revealed that the Yankees, in addition to two West Coast teams, are likely to join the bidding, which will require a posting fee followed by contract negotiations.

"“Morosi expects some MLB general managers to place Sugano in the class directly below Bauer among free-agent starters and names the Padres, Giants and Yankees as the teams to watch in the race for the 31-year-old righty.“Sugano spent the past eight seasons with Yomiuri, posting a 2.34 ERA with 1,216 strikeouts and 265 walks in 1,362 innings. He’s a two-time winner of the Sawamura Award, an honor given to the top starting pitcher in NPB.”"

Though Sugano will be entering his age-31 season, that’s hardly an issue for a guy who’s one of the best pitchers in the world. We know Major League Baseball is a different animal than the Japan Central League, but Sugano has plowed through the competition and is ready for his next challenge.

He sports a four-seam fastball, sinker, slider, curveball and forkball, all of which he can accurately locate, as evidenced by his 265 walks across 1,362 innings of work. Plus, his fastball at 93 MPH bodes well for his longevity and effectiveness of his pitching style as he ages.

The Yankees are typically always active on the international market, so this report shouldn’t come as a surprise. The potential bad news here is that this could be the move that jettisons Tanaka. The good news? It appears as if the Yankees are willing to spend if they going to pay for a posting fee and a multi-year contract.

We’re in for double-dipping on the Japanese studs. Bring back Tanaka and sign Sugano. That’ll help bring in revenue from the Asian markets, no?! Something to consider.

Yankees and Mets should pursue this trade to benefit one another

The New York Mets should at least explore the idea of trading with the New York Yankees now that Steve Cohen has taken over in Queens.