Japanese pitcher Yoshinobu Yamamoto made a resounding statement in Game 6 of the Japan Series, setting a new record for strikeouts while boosting his stock in the upcoming MLB free agency. The New York Post reports that both the Mets and the Yankees are expected to be among the teams vying for Yamamoto's signature during the winter transfer window.

In a masterful performance, Yamamoto, the ace of the Orix Buffaloes, pitched a complete-game victory over the Hanshin Tigers with an incredible 14 strikeouts and no walks. The victory forced a decisive seventh game in the series, adding to the excitement surrounding Yamamoto's impending free agency.

This season, Yamamoto showcased his exceptional skills with a remarkable 16-8 record, accompanied by a stellar 1.21 ERA and a 0.844 WHIP. He recorded an impressive 169 strikeouts in 164 innings pitched, solidifying his reputation as one of the top pitchers in Japan.

Yamamoto's standout performance in Game 6 set a new Japan Series record for strikeouts, surpassing the previous mark of 13 set by Yu Darvish in 2007. His dominant display further solidified his position as one of the most coveted starting pitchers on the upcoming MLB market.

As MLB teams begin to prepare for the bidding war, it is expected that the Yamamoto sweepstakes will open at a staggering $200 million over a duration of six or seven years. This figure would surpass the record-breaking $155 million deal signed by Masahiro Tanaka with the Yankees in 2014, making it the richest contract for a pitcher leaving Japan.

While Yamamoto's abilities have drawn comparisons to Shohei Ohtani, who has consistently impressed in both pitching and hitting, he is also expected to be in high demand alongside San Diego Padres' standout pitcher Blake Snell, who is a strong contender for the National League Cy Young Award.

The Mets, who made a significant signing last winter by securing Kodai Senga with a five-year, $75 million contract, have shown interest in Yamamoto. However, other MLB teams, including the Red Sox, Cubs, Cardinals, Dodgers, Diamondbacks, and Tigers, have also been linked to the talented pitcher according to Post baseball columnist Jon Heyman.

As Yamamoto's outstanding performance in Game 6 resonates throughout the baseball world, his impending entry into MLB free agency is causing a stir among teams eager to acquire his services. The race to secure his signature is set to intensify in the coming months, with both the Mets and the Yankees poised to make their moves to acquire the Japanese sensation.