Teruaki Sato approved for MLB posting by Hanshin Tigers

Hanshin Tigers third baseman Teruaki Sato has been granted permission to pursue Major League Baseball via the posting system. Sato, a 27-year-old Triple Crown winner in Japan's Central League, recorded a .306 batting average with 39 home runs and 106 RBIs this season.

Several MLB teams have been linked to the slugger, including the Los Angeles Dodgers, New York Yankees, New York Mets, Philadelphia Phillies, and Los Angeles Angels. Analysts have noted both his elite power and potential defensive versatility, though concerns remain regarding his strikeout rate and contact consistency.

Once officially posted, Sato will have a 45-day window to negotiate and sign a contract with an MLB club. His performance in the 2026 season and his experience with Japan in the World Baseball Classic have positioned him as a high-profile candidate for the upcoming offseason.