The Toronto Blue Jays’ spring training game against the New York Mets on February 23, 2026, ended in a 4-3 loss, but the contest delivered a moment that has Blue Jays fans buzzing with excitement. In the bottom of the second inning, newly acquired third baseman Kazuma Okamoto stepped to the plate and launched a majestic two-run home run off Mets reliever Clay Holmes. The blast traveled an estimated 431 feet to dead center field, smacking off the top of the batter’s eye—a spot more commonly associated with Vladimir Guerrero Jr.’s power displays at the team’s Dunedin facility.

The home run marked Okamoto’s first in a Blue Jays uniform, coming in just his second spring training appearance after making his exhibition debut days earlier. It was a no-doubter from the moment it left the bat, with an exit velocity of 103 mph and a launch angle that sent it soaring high and far. The shot gave Toronto an early 2-0 lead, though the Mets rallied later to secure the victory.

Following the towering homer, Blue Jays manager John Schneider approached Okamoto with high praise. “He’s no less talented than Shohei Ohtani,” Schneider exclaimed in his succinct yet striking 11-word endorsement, leaving many in attendance and watching online stunned by the bold comparison. The comment highlighted the immediate impression the 29-year-old Japanese star has made on the coaching staff since arriving in camp.

Okamoto’s arrival in Toronto stems from a significant offseason move. On January 4, 2026, the Blue Jays signed him to a four-year, $60 million contract, with a $5 million signing bonus and no opt-out clauses. The deal represented one of the team’s most aggressive pursuits of international talent this winter, as Toronto sought to bolster its lineup amid uncertainties at third base and questions surrounding other infield pieces. Okamoto, a six-time NPB All-Star during his 11-year career with the Yomiuri Giants, brings a proven track record of power and consistency from Japan’s top league.

In NPB, Okamoto established himself as one of the premier sluggers, hitting 30 or more home runs in six consecutive seasons and peaking with 41 long balls in 2023. His career slash line stands at .277/.361/.521 with an .882 OPS, accompanied by 248 home runs and 717 RBIs. He also led the league in homers three times and earned two Golden Glove awards, showcasing defensive versatility across first base, third base, and the outfield.

While NPB competition differs from MLB in terms of pitching velocity and movement, Okamoto’s ability to hit for both average and power made him an appealing target for a Blue Jays team looking to inject right-handed thump into the middle of the order.

Spring training has offered the first glimpses of how Okamoto might translate his skills to the majors. Beyond the home run against the Mets, he has drawn crowds during batting practice and drills, with fans and photographers following his every move. The “Okamoto effect” has been evident early, as the Japanese star adapts to the faster pace of the game and works closely with coaches on positioning and approach.

Manager Schneider has emphasized the need to help Okamoto adjust to big-league velocity and the demands of playing third base in the AL East, where he will face formidable opponents like Aaron Judge and other power hitters regularly.

Okamoto himself expressed satisfaction after the homer. Through interpreter Yusuke Oshima, he noted the hard work put in during offseason training and spring cage sessions. “I’ve been working hard this spring and doing a lot of cage work, a lot of live BP and talking to the coaches,” he said. “I want to be in good shape and be ready when the season starts, so I’m just glad I got the first one out of the way.” He also mentioned how the positive reactions from teammates and staff motivated him further, fueling his desire to contribute more to the team.

The comparison to Shohei Ohtani, while hyperbolic on the surface, carries weight in context. Ohtani, the Dodgers superstar and two-way phenom, set an unprecedented standard after his move from Japan, blending elite hitting with pitching dominance. Okamoto does not pitch, focusing solely on his offensive and defensive contributions, but Schneider’s words underscore the belief that Okamoto possesses rare talent and star potential in his own right. It also reflects the optimism surrounding Toronto’s offseason additions, which include high-profile signings like Dylan Cease and others aimed at pushing the team back toward contention.

For Blue Jays fans, the moment was a welcome spark during what is typically a low-stakes exhibition period. Social media lit up with highlights of the homer, clips circulating widely as supporters debated Okamoto’s ceiling and how he might fit alongside established stars like Guerrero Jr. The loss to the Mets was quickly overshadowed by the promise displayed in that one swing.

As spring training progresses, all eyes will remain on Okamoto. The Blue Jays hope his power translates consistently, providing protection in the lineup and stability at third base. If his early displays are any indication, Toronto may have landed a player capable of making a significant impact in 2026 and beyond. Schneider’s bold proclamation after the home run has set high expectations, but for now, it serves as a thrilling reminder of why the team invested so heavily in the Japanese slugger.

The regular season awaits, and fans are eager to see if Okamoto can live up to the hype generated by that unforgettable first blast in Blue Jays blue.