Orix announced on the 6th that he has signed a contract with pitcher Yoshihisa Hirano (36), who was a free agent for MLB Mariners. It was the first time in four years since the 2017 season that he returned to the old nest. The contract is for a single year with an annual salary of 150 million yen plus volume.

GM Fukura, who was interviewed by the representative at Miyazaki / Kiyotake SOKKEN Stadium, explained the reason for the acquisition, saying: “I spoke a couple of times. Joining one person makes the bullpen thicker. It also leads to a (younger) growth. “A press conference is scheduled for the 10th at a hotel in Miyazaki city.

Hirano exercised the FA rights abroad on a 17-year break. He played an active role on the Diamondbacks at 18 and 19. He played on the Mariners last season. Although playing in the Major Leagues was a top priority this season, the no-affiliation situation continued. As a result, Hirano himself, who recorded a total of 164 saves in Japan and the United States, decided to “go back to the old nest” for the first time in four years.

This is good news for Orix, who have been aiming to win the league since 1996. The uniform number “16” that Hirano had when he enrolled at Orix has been left empty. Even after the big challenge, he continued to have a good relationship with Hirano, and in late January, he saw Hirano greeting team members in Maishima, Osaka.

It will be the Orix “trigger” that has sunk to the bottom for the second year in a row. Dixon, who served as moderator last season, returned to the starting lineup. Higgins is adjusted to be cast 8 times. The guardian deity has not been decided at this time, and great strength will be returned to the team that has aimed to strengthen the relay team. (Estimated amount)[Ken Mashiba]