Part 2/10:
Kazuma Akamoto stands out as one of the premier hitters in the NPB, with recent seasons showcasing his elite offensive production. Over 69 games in the most recent year, he slashed an impressive .327/.416/.598 with 15 home runs and 49 RBIs. According to WRC Plus, Akamoto’s performance was 110% above league average, highlighting his elite offensive ability, especially in a dead-ball era where power is less frequent.
Strengths
Power and Contact: Akamoto combines a contact-first approach with substantial power, making him a rare hybrid at this level.
Ball Profile: He frequently pulls the ball, elevates well, maintains low ground ball rates, and exhibits high fly ball rates—traits that translate well to MLB.