SF targeting Japanese MVP ace pitcher Sugano

The most dominant pitcher in Japan could be on the verge of signing with the San Francisco Giants.

Tomoyuki Sugano, a 31-yearold right-hander and two-time MVP in the Nippon Professional Baseball Organization, is expected to make a decision regarding his major league future this week and the Giants are considered one of the favorites to land the starter.

The Giants have been reluctant to hand out multiyear contracts under president of baseball operations Farhan Zaidi, but Sugano could fill a pressing need for an organization that’s shy on top starting pitchers.

What makes Sugano an intriguing fit for the Giants? What should fans learn about a pitcher who could be a critical part of the team’s future if he signs in San Francisco? Here are some things to know about Sugano:

SUGANO HAS AN ELITE TRACK RECORD >> As the most high-profile starter in the NPB since Masahiro Tanaka joined the Yankees ahead of the 2014 season, Sugano has almost nothing left to accomplish in Japan. In eight seasons with the Yomiuri Giants, Sugano has been named to six All-Star teams, been honored as a two-time Central League MVP and also won two Eli Sawamura Awards, given annually to the top pitcher in the NPB.

Sugano won the pitching triple crown in the NPB in 2018 when he led the league in innings pitched, ERA and strikeouts. Despite an unspectacular 2019 season, he bounced back this summer to post a 1.97 ERA. HE’S ALWAYS WANTED TO PITCH FOR THE GIANTS (WELL, SORT OF) >> Sugano was considered