Kazuma Okamoto reaches 250 career home runs in MLB and NPB! Sugano Tomoyuki feels deeply moved when facing his former junior teammate.

Toronto Blue Jays' Japanese slugger Kazuma Okamoto homered in back-to-back games! In his initial two at-bats against his former teammate from the Yomiuri Giants, Tomoyuki Sugano, whom he played with for ten years, Okamoto was struck out once but also earned a walk. During his last chance in the bottom of the ninth inning, he drove a ball that hit the top edge of the outfield wall and bounced back into play. Following a television-assisted review, it was ruled a home run, achieving his personal milestone of 250 career home runs across MLB and NPB.

Former Giants teammate Tomoyuki Sugano pitched 4.2 innings in this game, allowing two hits including one home run and conceding one run. After the game, 36-year-old Sugano shared his special feelings about facing Okamoto: "It truly felt unique; I definitely wanted to shut him down. I've watched him grow since he was 18, so the emotions are particularly deep."

Sugano revealed that during Okamoto's second plate appearance, he threw with full effort, reaching a speed of 94.8 mph. "It was impressive that he didn't swing at that pitch; I gave it my all, but he read it perfectly. His name is becoming well-known in the Major Leagues, and I believe he will definitely achieve success." Sugano praised Okamoto's batting judgment and defensive skills: "He doesn't swing recklessly; he accurately judges the strike zone, and his defense is completely solid, allowing him to focus entirely on his hitting."