Anthony Kay Plans MLB Comeback After Successful Japan Stint

Anthony Kay, a former Mets first-round pick and left-handed pitcher, is attempting an MLB comeback after two successful seasons pitching in Japan for the Yokohama DeNA BayStars. In 2025, Kay set a team record with a 1.74 ERA over 155 innings, led the Nippon Professional Baseball league in groundball rate at 57.8%, and averaged a mid-90s fastball velocity, showcasing improved performance as a starter compared to his previous MLB relief roles. Despite a challenging MLB career marked by a 5.59 ERA across multiple teams including the Mets, Cubs, and Blue Jays, Kay's dominant overseas performance has generated interest from MLB teams seeking pitching depth. Though a return to the Cubs seems unlikely, given their rebuilding phase and existing pitching assets, Kay's ability to induce groundballs and his improved strikeout-to-walk ratios make him a potential asset in starting rotations. His developmental strides in Japan could translate into a more effective MLB role, offering Kay a chance to revive his major league career in 2026.