New York Rivalry Heats Up as Mets Seemingly Hijack Deal for 25YO Japanese Ace Amidst Yankees’ Strong Interest

New York is in dire straits. For the first time in almost a decade, neither of its MLB teams are playing in the postseason. The roster buildup has begun since the two teams now have an extra four weeks to work on 2024. In addition to the league’s soon-to-be free agents, the New York Yankees and the New York Mets are looking to other nations. Particularly Japan, and pitching star Yoshinobu Yamamoto.

With both teams effectively collapsing in 2023, new blood is needed and it may come from across the sea. This year, the Mets’ Kodai Senga has already been a hit with his ghost forkball. While it was rumored that the Bronx wanted him, Senga ultimately went to Queens. The Yankees have also been keeping an eye on Japan’s current best pitcher. But will the Mets again swoop in and take the win for themselves?

Yoshinobu Yamamoto – New York Yankees or New York Mets?

Brian Cashman, wildly unpopular in the Bronx, recently flew all the way to Japan to witness the Orix Buffaloes star in action. That day, the 25-year-old hit the 100th no-hitter in the history of Nippon Professional Baseball, the second of his career. Baseball enthusiasts around the world were impressed, and Yankees fans wanted him in Pinstripes next season. But when asked about his signing rumors, the GM ignored the question.

The two-time MVP would undoubtedly be a fantastic addition to the failing Yankees roster. But the trouble with the Japanese sensation is MLB’s strong interest in him, just like a certain two-way player. While Shohei Ohtani‘s future looms above excited fans, so does Yamamoto’s. Twice the winner of the Sawamura Award (NPB’s Cy Young equivalent), the youngster already has a reputation in the league.

Combined with mind-blowing stats, Yamamoto’s unique curveball has earned him a standing even in MLB, and fans want him to play for the Yankees next. The only matter of fact that might stop some is his unimposing 5’10” frame. “It’s the only thing that gives me pause,” a GM told Jon Heyman of The New York Post. But is Yamamoto hinting at where he wants to go next with a Senga-like move?

Yamamoto Following in Senga’s Footsteps Could Cause Trouble in New York

A few weeks ago, the Yankees apparently shifted attention from the 25-year-old pitcher to a different 21-year-old talent. Roki Sasaki, along with Ohtani, Yamamoto, and Senga, was a big hit in the 2023 World Baseball Classic. But Yamamoto has apparently signed the same agent as the Mets pitcher as representation.

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This could mean that the Buffaloes’ player is looking to come to New York but will play in blue and orange. It remains to be seen which team the pitching wonder will choose.

WATCH THIS STORY – Yankees’ GM Brian Cashman Faces Japanese Ace Showdown After Shocking Kodai Senga Revelation by Yoshinobu Yamamoto