Yoshi Tsutsugo

Marc Topkin of The Tampa Bay Times writes that Yoshi Tsutsugo has headed home to his native Japan.

Fantasy Impact

Tsutsugo signed with the Rays this off-season after spending his entire life in Japan. Coronavirus conditions have improved over there, which made it a no-brainer decision for him to return home and see his family until MLB is ready to resume activties. The 28-year-old was reportedly impressing the team enough on defense in spring training that they would be comfortable rotating him between first base, third base, and left field this season.

Yoshi Tsutsugo has impressed the Rays with his defensive capabilities at left field and third base.

Fantasy Impact

Impressed might be a strong word. Really, the team has been satisfied enough that they feel Tsutsugo can move around the diamond in order to get his bat in the lineup. Of course, platooning is an integral part of the organization's strategy. The 28-year-old signed a two-year contract this off-season after spending the early part of his career in Japan.

Yoshi Tsutsugo went 0-for-3 with three strikeouts in Saturday's win over the Orioles.

Fantasy Impact

Tsutsugo is hitting .250 with a homer and a double through nine Grapefruit League games this spring. The 28-year-old will likely start versus right-hander right away. However, expect him to platoon with Jose Martinez when a lefty is on the mound.

Marc Topkin of The Tampa Bay Times reports the Rays have come to terms on a two-year contract with Yoshitomo Tsutsugo.

Fantasy Impact

The deal is worth approximately $12 million. The Rays also had to pay a posting fee of $2.4 million. Tsutsugo is a lefty hitting slugger that is expected to play third base, left field, and designated hitter for the Rays next year. In Japan last year he posted an .899 OPS with 29 homers in 131 games.