Japanese Pitcher Yoshinobu Yamamoto Could Be a Potential Target for the Chicago Cubs

Potential Cubs target Yoshinobu Yamamoto posted by Japanese team originally appeared on NBC Sports Chicago

The highly-coveted free agent pitcher, Yoshinobu Yamamoto, has been posted by the Orix Buffaloes, signaling his potential move to Major League Baseball.

Reports indicate that the official negotiation window with Yamamoto will open on Tuesday, presenting an opportunity for all 30 teams to make offers for his services.

Yamamoto boasted a remarkable 17-6 record and a 1.16 ERA with 176 strikeouts and only 28 walks in 171 innings of work during the 2023 season.

Amidst reported interest from various big-market teams, Yamamoto is expected to command a substantial price tag in free agency.

As per the rules of MLB’s posting system, Nippon Professional Baseball league players with less than nine years of professional experience can request to be “posted” for MLB clubs, as is the case with Yamamoto.

This posting initiates a 45-day negotiation period, and a “release fee” must be paid to Orix by the signing team, potentially adding $30 million or more to his contract price.

Reports suggest Yamamoto could secure a $200 million or more MLB contract due to his successful track record in Japan and his age of 25, positioning him as a top-level pitcher for a decade or longer.

Teams potentially interested in Yamamoto include the Yankees, Mets, Dodgers, Giants, and Cubs. However, the Cubs’ pursuit of Yamamoto may be affected by their efforts to sign superstar free agent Shohei Ohtani.

Click here to follow the Cubs Talk Podcast.