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Report: 18-year-old Japanese top prospect Oda meeting with MLB teams
by Tom Ruminski
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Japanese phenom Shoki Oda is expected to meet with several MLB clubs, including the Los Angeles Dodgers, New York Yankees, and Philadelphia Phillies, according to MLB reporter Francys Romero.

The 18-year-old pitching prospect could be eligible to sign when the international signing period begins Jan. 15 if it isn’t delayed by the looming lockout.

Oda announced in mid-October that he intends to play in the United States, either by signing with an MLB team or going to an American college. The Yomiuri Giants selected the right-hander in the first round of the 2026 NPB Draft. However, he opted not to sign with the Japanese powerhouse.

Earlier this year, Oda gained international attention after dominating a prestigious high school baseball tournament in Japan. His fastball touched 97 mph at the event.

For comparison, Los Angeles Dodgers stars Shohei Ohtani and Roki Sasaki reached 99.4 mph in high school games.

Oda attended the same school as former MLB pitcher Daisuke Matsuzaka, who became one of the most hyped hurlers to come over from Japan ahead of his MLB debut in 2007. Matsuzaka finished fourth in 2008 AL Cy Young voting.

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