Overview
- The Seibu Lions announced Friday that they have officially posted right-hander Kaima Taira, allowing MLB clubs to begin negotiations on Nov. 1 under the standard 45-day posting window.
- Taira, 26, returned to the rotation this season and compiled a 12-5 record with a Pacific League-leading 1.36 ERA and a 0.96 WHIP in 23 games.
- The move reflects Taira’s long-stated goal to play in MLB and Seibu General Manager Koji Hiroike publicly endorsed fulfilling the pitcher’s wish.
- An anonymous source warned the posting timetable could be moved earlier to Dec. 1 if MLB’s current collective bargaining agreement expires without a replacement, which would narrow teams’ negotiation time.
- Under NPB rules a posted player becomes available for MLB deals that carry no length or salary caps for players over 25, Seibu would receive a release fee tied to any contract, and other NPB stars such as Teruaki Sato are pursuing MLB moves this offseason.