The Colorado Rockies announced on Tuesday the signing of right-handed pitcher Tomoyuki Sugano to a one-year deal. This move coincides with Kris Bryant being placed on the 60-day injured list to open a spot on the roster. The addition of Sugano aims to strengthen the Rockies’ pitching staff for the upcoming season.
Sugano’s Career Highlights and Recent Performance
Tomoyuki Sugano, 36, joined Major League Baseball in 2025, pitching for the Baltimore Orioles. In his debut MLB season, Sugano recorded a 10-10 win-loss record with a 4.64 ERA, compiling 106 strikeouts and issuing 36 walks over 30 starts. Before coming to MLB, Sugano spent twelve seasons pitching for the Yomiuri Giants in Nippon Professional Baseball, where he achieved a 136-74 record with a 2.43 ERA.
Accomplishments in Japan and International Play
Sugano’s tenure in Japan was marked by multiple awards, including three Central League MVP titles in 2014, 2020, and 2024. He also earned three consecutive Central League Mitsui Golden Glove Awards from 2016 to 2018 and was selected to eight All-Star games between 2013 and 2019, with an additional appearance in 2022. Internationally, Sugano represented Team Japan at the 2017 World Baseball Classic and is expected to participate again in the upcoming tournament.
Impact of Kris Bryant’s Injury on Rockies’ Roster
To accommodate Sugano’s contract, the Rockies placed Kris Bryant on the 60-day injured list. Bryant’s absence is significant for the team, but the signing of Sugano reflects the organization’s effort to maintain competitive pitching depth in the roster as they navigate the season challenges in Denver.
