TOKYO - Seibu Lions right-hander Kaima Taira said he was looking forward to playing in the majors Saturday, a day after the Pacific League club announced it would allow him to pursue a move to MLB via the posting system.
"I'm simply happy and determined to do my best," the 26-year-old Taira said at the Saitama-based team's Belluna Dome home.
"I want to produce results wherever I go," Taira said, indicating he is ready to join any MLB club.
Taira hopes to continue as a starter after going 12-5 with a PL-leading 1.36 ERA, helping the Lions finish second and secure their first postseason Climax Series berth since 2022.
"As a pitcher, my goal is to win a Cy Young Award (for the top starter), and I'd like to pitch in the World Series as well," the Okinawa Prefecture native said.
Taira excelled as both a starter and reliever, wining the PL's award for top setup reliever in 2022 and the saves title last season.
In 325 career appearances, he has posted a 37-24 record with 62 saves, 111 holds and a 1.78 ERA.
A Nippon Professional Baseball player can move to MLB either as an international free agent, a status gained after nine years as a pro, or as a posted player whose club agrees to accept a release fee if he signs abroad.
