DUNEDIN, FL – Kazuma Okamoto made an immediate impact for the Toronto Blue Jays on Monday, February 23, hitting a two-run home run in a 4-3 pre-season loss to the New York Mets.

Impressive Power Display

Okamoto’s home run traveled an estimated 431 feet to dead center field, leaving the bat at 103.4 mph. The hit gave the Blue Jays a 2-0 lead in the bottom of the second inning.

Facing a Veteran Pitcher

The home run came off a pitch from Mets starting pitcher Clay Holmes, an eight-year veteran who transitioned to a full-time starter last season. Holmes posted a 3.53 ERA in 165.2 innings with the Mets in 2025.

Positive Early Reviews

MLB Hall of Fame writer Jason Stark praised Okamoto’s swing after the home run, stating, Big moment here in Dunedin. Kazuma Okamoto just launched his first (spring) HR as a Blue Jay. 431 feet to CF, off the batter’s eye. There was some wind involved, but that’s not important now. This man has a sweet swing.

the home run was hit on a sweeper pitch thrown low and away, which Okamoto barreled effectively. Last season, Holmes used his sweeper 19% of the time, and allowed only one home run on that pitch all year.

Transitioning to MLB

Okamoto, who signed a four-year, $60 million deal with the Blue Jays, was a consistent power hitter in Nippon Professional Baseball, hitting over 30 home runs in six seasons. Despite being limited to 69 games last season due to injury, he still managed 15 home runs with a slash line of .327/.416/.598.

The Blue Jays are hoping Okamoto can fill the void left by Bo Bichette, who signed with the Mets this offseason. Bichette did not play in Monday’s game.

FAQ

• How far did Okamoto’s home run travel? Approximately 431 feet.
• Who did Okamoto hit the home run against? Clay Holmes of the New York Mets.
• What was Okamoto’s batting average last season? .327