Tomoyuki Sugano, one of Japan’s most celebrated pitchers, has taken a significant step in his career by signing with the Baltimore Orioles. Sugano’s journey from Nippon Professional Baseball (NPB) to Major League Baseball (MLB) marks a historic transition for both him and the Orioles. Sugano brings an impressive track record of dominance in Japan, and his arrival has already sparked excitement in Baltimore and beyond.
With the Orioles looking to strengthen their rotation, Sugano’s impact is expected to be profound both on the field and within Maryland’s broader sports landscape.
Early Career and Dominance in Nippon Professional Baseball (NPB)
Tomoyuki Sugano built a legendary reputation with the Yomiuri Giants, where he became a cornerstone of the franchise over 12 seasons. Debuting in 2013, Sugano immediately showcased his talent, establishing himself as one of Japan’s elite pitchers.
Sugano’s ability to command the strike zone and mix his pitches effectively made him a nightmare for batters in NPB. His consistency on the mound led him to rack up a total of 136 wins against 74 losses, an outstanding record that underlines his dependability.
Sugano’s excellence in Japan earned him two prestigious Sawamura Awards, NPB’s equivalent of MLB’s Cy Young Award. These awards, won in 2017 and 2018, solidified his status as one of the most dominant pitchers in Japanese baseball. The 2017 season saw him post an incredible 1.59 ERA, followed by a 2.14 ERA in 2018, further cementing his reputation as Japan’s finest pitcher of the era.
Sugano’s pitching repertoire is a major reason for his success. His four-seam fastball averages 92 mph, but what makes him truly dangerous is the variety of secondary pitches in his arsenal. He mixes in a two-seamer, cutter, slider, splitter, and curveball, keeping batters off balance and making hard contact difficult. His ability to adjust his pitch sequencing depending on the situation has made him a master tactician on the mound.
Transition to MLB With the Baltimore Orioles
After years of speculation regarding his move to the MLB, Sugano finally made the leap in December 2024, signing a one-year, $13 million contract with the Baltimore Orioles. This deal comes at a crucial time for the Orioles, as they look to bolster their starting rotation. At 35 years old, Sugano enters MLB as a veteran with a wealth of experience but remains highly effective, as demonstrated by his stellar 1.67 ERA in his final NPB season.
While transitioning from NPB to MLB presents challenges, Sugano has the experience and skill set to make a smooth adjustment. The MLB schedule is longer, and hitters tend to be more patient compared to NPB. However, Sugano’s command and ability to induce weak contact make him well-suited for the transition. The Orioles expect him to be a reliable starter capable of providing quality innings.
Sugano’s signing comes after Corbin Burnes’ departure to the Arizona Diamondbacks in free agency, leaving a major gap in Baltimore’s rotation. With Burnes no longer leading the staff, the Orioles are counting on Sugano to step in and provide stability alongside their other starters. His track record in Japan suggests he has the ability to make a significant impact from day one.
Impact on Maryland’s Baseball Community
Sugano’s presence in Baltimore has already generated increased interest from the Japanese-American community and baseball fans in Maryland. His international following is expected to drive more engagement with the Orioles, both in the U.S. and abroad. Japanese baseball fans are known for their passionate support, and many will be tuning in to watch Sugano’s performances in MLB.
The Orioles have been making strategic moves to expand their influence beyond the U.S. market. Sugano’s arrival is part of a broader effort to build connections with Japanese and Asian baseball markets. This aligns with other international outreach initiatives by the Orioles, including former player Adam Jones’ involvement in global baseball promotions.
Camden Yards is set to benefit from Sugano’s addition to the team, with increased ticket sales expected for Orioles home games. Baltimore has already seen a rise in merchandise sales related to Sugano, showing early signs of the business impact his presence will have. Fans eager to witness his debut are expected to fill the stands, creating an electrifying atmosphere in Baltimore.
Maryland’s Sports Betting Surge Following Sugano’s Signing
The excitement surrounding Sugano’s MLB debut extends to Maryland’s sports betting scene. Local sportsbooks have noted increased interest in Orioles’ games, with fans eager to support Sugano’s performances. For those looking to engage more deeply, the top sports betting apps in Maryland offer opportunities to participate in the state’s vibrant sports wagering market.
Expectations for Sugano’s First MLB Season
Given his 1.67 ERA in his final season with the Yomiuri Giants, Sugano is expected to bring elite control and effectiveness to Baltimore’s rotation. While facing MLB hitters will be a new challenge, his disciplined approach and ability to limit hard contact suggest he could post an ERA in the mid-3.00 range in his first season.
As a 35-year-old veteran, Sugano brings valuable leadership to the Orioles’ clubhouse. Younger pitchers will benefit from his experience, particularly those looking to refine their command and approach. His professionalism and work ethic are expected to set a strong example for Baltimore’s pitching staff.
Sugano’s one-year contract means his performance in 2025 will be crucial in determining his future in MLB. If he thrives, he could secure an extension with the Orioles or draw interest from other teams in free agency. Given his durability and consistent track record, a multi-year MLB career remains a possibility.
A Defining Chapter in Sugano’s Career
Tomoyuki Sugano’s move to MLB marks a defining chapter in his already decorated career. From dominating NPB to now taking on the challenge of Major League Baseball, his journey is one of perseverance, skill, and ambition. If he delivers as expected, he will not only elevate the Orioles’ rotation but also leave an enduring mark on the global baseball stage.
For the Baltimore Orioles, Sugano represents more than just an addition to their pitching staff—he is a symbol of their growing ambitions. As they strive for playoff contention, having an experienced arm like Sugano’s could be a key factor in their success. His signing reflects the team’s commitment to strengthening their roster with international talent.
Tomoyuki Sugano’s MLB debut is one of the most highly anticipated transitions in recent years. Fans in Baltimore and Japan will be watching closely, eager to see if the legendary NPB pitcher can carve out a new legacy in Major League Baseball.
