Kazuma Okamoto sets Japanese right-handed home run record

Kazuma Okamoto of the Toronto Blue Jays has set a new record for the most home runs in a single season by a Japanese right-handed batter. During a game against the Detroit Tigers on September 14, Okamoto hit his 33rd home run, a three-run shot in the 7th inning that temporarily gave the Blue Jays a lead.

Okamoto’s performance has been a significant highlight for the team as they compete for a wild card spot. While his 33rd home run provided a moment of excitement for fans in Toronto, the Blue Jays ultimately lost the game 6-5 after conceding the lead in the 9th inning. Despite the loss, Okamoto continues to demonstrate high performance, recently surpassing Hideki Matsui’s previous single-season record of 31 home runs for a Japanese player in MLB.

In subsequent play, Okamoto maintained his hitting streak, recording a hit in a game against the Tigers to reach five consecutive games with a hit. However, the Blue Jays' loss has widened the gap in the wild card race, leaving them two games behind the Guardians.