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On yesterday’s Rockpile, sdcarp posed an interesting scenario in the comments:
I’m going to waiver on my typical hardline “focus of the playoff window opening in 2030” stance in the case of Sugano-san (and Yuto Sakurai) and offer an alternative take on Sugano only. I’m guessing (no
hard evidence) that Sugano still carries considerable sway in Japan. Last week I cut-and-paste a list of a half-dozen Japanese pitchers that may be “posted” in 2027. One (Itoh) is elite. With this in mind, dare we sign Sugano to extension now (because my non-sexy take is that he’s the most valuable Rockie 2026 to date – so this stands on performance merit anyway) with a plan of seriously pursuing one (or more) of the 2027 wave of Japanese pitchers. Bottom line – will the opportunity to be Sugano’s teammate move the needle for any of the 2027 postings??? Is gambling on a FA Japanese posting a better bet than a flier on a A level prospect via trade. I think it might be.
There has been a lot of talk about trading Sugano at the deadline because he has been their most consistent pitcher. But could there be a benefit to re-signing him with the hopes of luring some other Japanese players?
What would you rather see the Rockies do? Would you rather them still trade him at the deadline, or perhaps bring him back on a one-year deal in 2027?
Let us know!
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