[Official] 'Doosan also played a bold move': Surprise signing announcement, new Asia quota player 'Top of NPB 2nd Division Eastern League' — Japanese Takada signed

*This content was translated by AI.

Doosan Bears also made a bold move by replacing its Asia quota player mid-season.

On the 29th, Doosan officially announced, "We have signed Japanese left-handed pitcher Takada Takuto (24) for a total contract value of $120,000 ($50,000 transfer fee and $70,000 annual salary)."

Takada, a Japanese left-handed pitcher, stands 179 cm tall and weighs 84 kg. He was selected in the sixth round of the 2021 Nippon Professional Baseball (NPB) draft by the Yokohama DeNA BayStars.

He has worn the Niigata Oysters uniform in the NPB 2nd Division since last year. This season, he appeared in 10 games, pitched 61.2 innings, and recorded 4 wins and 2 losses. Notably, his ERA of 1.75 ranked him first overall in the NPB 2nd Division Eastern League.

A Doosan club official explained the signing background, stating, "Takada throws a fastball reaching up to 148 km/h and effectively uses a cutter, splitter, and changeup. He shows composure even after throwing over 100 pitches, making him attractive as a starting pitcher. We judged him to be a player who can control games based on his excellent deception movements and quick arm swing."

Takada expressed his determination, saying, "I am honored to become a member of the Doosan Bears. I was in good form during the NPB season this year. In the KBO League, I will focus on maintaining that momentum and contributing to the team's victories. I ask for your continued support."

Meanwhile, Takada is scheduled to join the first-division roster after completing administrative procedures.

Meanwhile, on the 26th, Doosan requested a waiver notice from the Korea Baseball Organization (KBO) for its former Asia quota right-handed pitcher, Tamura Ichiro (32).

Tamura joined Doosan this season with high expectations. However, he appeared in all 17 games as a relief pitcher this season, leaving Doosan with a disappointing record of 1 win, 1 loss, 2 holds, and an ERA of 7.31.

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*This content was translated by AI.