From Mlb · · 1m
Sato Joins MLB Posting System
NPB MVP Sato enters MLB posting system after winning 2026 Triple Crown.
In brief
NPB MVP Sato enters MLB posting system after winning 2026 Triple Crown. Teruaki Sato, the 2026 NPB Triple Crown winner, will join MLB this offseason after Hanshin Tigers approved his posting. Originally reported by Mlb.
Sato enters MLB posting system
Hanshin Tigers of Nippon Professional Baseball approved Teruaki Sato's posting to MLB this offseason.
Sato wins 2026 Triple Crown
Sato, 28 years old, won the Central League Triple Crown in 2026 with a .306 batting average, 39 home runs, and 106 RBIs.
45-day negotiation window
All 30 MLB teams have 45 days to negotiate with Sato after he enters the posting system.
No contract restrictions
Sato's contract will have no restrictions as he is over 25 years old, unlike younger players.
Release fee for Hanshin
Hanshin will receive a release fee based on Sato's contract value with his new MLB team.
Sato's return to Hanshin
If Sato doesn't sign with an MLB team by the end of the 45-day window, he returns to Hanshin for 2027.
The short version
Teruaki Sato, the 2026 NPB Triple Crown winner, will join MLB this offseason after Hanshin Tigers approved his posting.
