On the 18th, Lotte announced the acquisition of pitcher Andre Jackson who had been released by DeNA.
Through the team, Jackson commented, "The days I and my family have spent in Japan have been a great blessing. I am excited to begin this new chapter in Chiba. I want to do my best to contribute to winning the league championship and becoming the best in Japan. I am excited to build bonds with my teammates and fans. Let's go Marines!"
Manager Saburo expressed his expectations, saying, "He has a proven track record in Japan, having pitched over 293 inning in the two years up to this year, and we have high hopes for him as pitcher will support our rotation throughout the year. His powerful fastball, which can induce strikeouts, and his variety of breaking ball are his weapons, and change-up has a lot of movement, so with the Marine Stadium wind on his side, I think it will be difficult for him to hit. We were looking to acquire starter who could be the core of our rotation, and I think we have added a truly reliable player to our team."
Jackson played for DeNA this season, appearing in 25 games and pitching 150 2/3 innings, compiling a record of 10 wins and 7 losses ERA of 2.33. Along with Atsuki Taneichi and Kazuya Ojima, who reached the required innings pitched this season, he is expected to be a key part of the starting rotation.