With NPB standout Teruaki Sato reportedly expected to make the jump to Major League Baseball next season, the New York Mets have emerged as one of the teams monitoring the 27-year-old slugger.
According to Jon Heyman of the New York Post, the Mets have been scouting Sato and could view him as a potential solution to their current need at first base. Heyman also identified the New York Yankees, Los Angeles Dodgers and Philadelphia Phillies as clubs that could pursue the Japanese star.
ESPN’s Jorge Castillo previously reported in March that MLB teams were preparing for Sato to leave Japan following the 2026 season. Sato has spent his entire NPB career with the Hanshin Tigers since making his debut in 2021.
Scouts reportedly have some concerns about Sato’s defense at third base, but his offensive ability has drawn plenty of praise, particularly his power at the plate.
For the Mets, the potential addition of Sato would come as the club searches for stability at first base. Mark Vientos has struggled while attempting to fill the void left by Pete Alonso, batting .211/.256/.388 across 73 games this season. He is also currently sidelined with a fractured hand.
Bo Bichette remains New York’s starting third baseman and is unlikely to opt out of his contract following his struggles in 2026. He is scheduled to earn $55.3 million next season under his current deal.
If Sato wants to remain at third base after arriving in MLB, the Yankees or Phillies could potentially provide a clearer path to regular playing time. Philadelphia’s Alec Bohm is set to enter free agency following the season.
Meanwhile, Ryan McMahon is owed $16 million in the final year of his contract next season. The Yankees could still look for more offensive production at third base after acquiring McMahon from the Colorado Rockies.
Sato has already established himself as one of Japan’s premier hitters. He is a four-time All-Star and captured Central League MVP honors in 2025 after batting .277/.345/.579 with 40 home runs in 139 games.
His production has taken another step forward in 2026. Through 103 games, Sato is hitting .317/.404/.622 and is on pace to set career highs across all three slash-line categories.
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