Koji Mitsui Released, Likely to Try For MLB

» 08 October 2009 » In mlb prospects, npb »

Last year, Seibu Lions lefty Koji Mitsui became a historical footnote when he failed to draw a bid in two consecutive posting attempts in the same offseason. After putting up a 6.23 era in 19 appearances this season, Seibu has released the veteran, and Hochi Sports is suggesting that it’s likely that he’ll try again to catch on with an MLB club. Mitsui might have a better chance at getting a contract without the hurdle of the posting process, but he’s still looking at an uphill battle. Mitsui’s velocity on his fastball didn’t climb much higher than 85 mph this season and was in the low 80’s as of his last appearance.

Other notable players Seibu won’t be bringing back next season include John Wasdin, Hiram Bocachica, and Shinya Okamoto, who was a solid middle reliever for Chunichi for quite a while.

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