Anthony Kay Returns to MLB: White Sox Ink Left-Hander After Stellar Japan Stint
The baseball world is abuzz with the news that left-handed pitcher Anthony Kay is making his highly anticipated return to Major League Baseball. The Chicago White Sox have reportedly secured the southpaw’s services with a two-year, $12 million deal, sources confirmed to MLB.com’s Mark Feinsand on Wednesday. While the club has yet to officially announce the agreement, the deal is said to include a $10 million mutual option for 2028, signaling a significant commitment to the veteran hurler.
From Japan to Chicago: A Rejuvenated Career
At 30 years old, Anthony Kay is returning to the big leagues after an impressive two-season tenure with the Yokohama Bay Stars in Japan’s Nippon Professional Baseball (NPB). His time overseas proved to be a remarkable career resurgence. In 2025, Kay posted an exceptional 1.74 ERA, tallying 130 strikeouts against just 41 walks over 155 innings pitched. This dominant performance clearly caught the attention of MLB scouts and front offices.
Intriguingly, sources close to Feinsand indicate that Kay had more lucrative offers to continue pitching in the NPB. However, the allure of returning to Major League Baseball, where his career began, ultimately proved stronger, showcasing his determination to prove himself on the biggest stage once again.
A Look Back at Kay’s Journey to the Majors
A native of Stony Brook, New York, Kay’s journey in professional baseball has been a winding one. He was initially drafted by the New York Mets as the 31st overall pick in the 2016 MLB Draft out of the University of Connecticut. His path then took him to the Toronto Blue Jays, where he was traded alongside Simeon Woods Richardson for star pitcher Marcus Stroman in 2019.
Kay’s initial stint in MLB saw him record a 5.59 ERA across appearances for the Blue Jays, Chicago Cubs, and Mets from 2019-2023. He also briefly spent time in the Oakland Athletics organization before electing free agency after being outrighted from their 40-man roster. This led him to sign with Yokohama in January 2024, setting the stage for his impactful revival.
What This Means for the Chicago White Sox
For the Chicago White Sox, the signing of Anthony Kay represents a calculated move to bolster their pitching rotation with a pitcher who has demonstrated significant growth and effectiveness. Kay, despite having only seven big league starts under his belt, now has a golden opportunity to cement his place in the White Sox’s starting five.
He is expected to join a rotation that currently includes names like Shane Smith, Davis Martin, Sean Burke, and Jonathan Cannon. Kay’s left-handed arm and newfound confidence could provide a much-needed boost and a veteran presence to the White Sox staff. His experience in high-pressure situations in Japan could also be invaluable.
Key Details of the Deal:
- Player: Anthony Kay (Left-Handed Pitcher)
- Team: Chicago White Sox
- Contract: 2 years, $12 million
- Option: $10 million mutual option for 2028
- Previous Team: Yokohama Bay Stars (NPB)
This signing is more than just a transaction; it’s a testament to perseverance and the power of a second chance. Anthony Kay’s story is a compelling reminder that talent, when coupled with dedication, can find a way to shine again, no matter where the journey takes you. Fans will undoubtedly be eager to see how his rejuvenated form translates back to the Major League mound.
For more updates on MLB signings and trades, visit MLB.com. To learn more about the fascinating world of Japanese baseball, explore resources on Nippon Professional Baseball.
