Overview

• GM Junji Ogawa revealed on July 25 that Yakult has begun negotiations to acquire 31-year-old right-hander Koyo Aoyagi following his release from the Philadelphia Phillies’ minor league system.
• Aoyagi signed a minor league contract with the Phillies in January after being posted from the Hanshin Tigers but did not reach the major leagues, recording a 1–3 record and 7.22 ERA in 23 appearances.
• During his tenure with Hanshin, Aoyagi led NPB in wins and winning percentage in 2021 and 2022 and captured the pitching triple crown, including best ERA, in 2022.
• Over 154 NPB games, the veteran has compiled a 61–47 record with a 3.08 ERA, underscoring his value as a seasoned arm.
• The Swallows are drawing on post-MLB free agency to strengthen their rotation against stiff Central League competition.