Baseball: Lions right-hander Taira looking forward to MLB challenge
TOKYO (Kyodo) -- Seibu Lions right-hander Kaima Taira said he was looking forward to playing in the majors Saturday, a day after the Pacific League cl
Seibu Lions' right-handed pitcher Kaima Taira expressed excitement about playing in the Major League Baseball (MLB) on Saturday, following the Pacific League club's announcement regarding a potential move via the posting system. The 26-year-old Japanese right-hander, who has been a standout player for the Lions, shared his determination to give his best in whichever league he joins. His goal is to contribute to his team's success and to achieve a Cy Young Award, as well as a spot in the World Series.
Taira's impressive performance in the Pacific League, where he went 12-5 with a 1.36 ERA, has caught the attention of MLB clubs. As a starter, he aims to win the league's top pitching award and make it to the World Series. In his illustrious career, Taira has contributed significantly to the Lions, winning the award for top setup reliever in 2022, securing the saves title the following season, and posting a 37-24 record with 62 saves, 111 holds, and a 1.78 ERA across 325 career appearances.
The Japanese baseball player can make the leap to MLB either as an international free agent, a posted player whose club consents to a release fee upon signing abroad.
Written by urgent.news from The Mainichi's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
