Uniform number “11”, realization in relief also in major
On the 21st, Yakult announced the acquisition of former Dodgers pitcher Kioni Kera as the new foreign pitcher next season. The shirt number was decided to be “11”. A right-hander who pitched a total of 243 major league games, boasting 23 wins, 13 losses, 28 saves and 59 catches.
He did not pitch in the majors this season and pitched in 19 games for the three minor teams, with 1 win and 2 losses and a 4.82 ERA. Yakult played for four years, and pitcher Scott McGuff, who made 38 saves this season, has left the team, making it urgent to acquire an immediate relief force.
Here’s what Kera said in a statement released by the club:
“I am very happy to play as a member of the Swallows next season. My family and I are deeply grateful to the team for giving us this opportunity. I will do my best to contribute. I am confident that together with the fans who support the Swallows, we will make great things and we will bring even more success to the Swallows. Thanks again for this wonderful opportunity. I can’t wait for next season.”
(Full-Count Editorial Department)