Seibu Lions' Kaima Taira spoke about "unfinished business," saying "I'd like to try it," as the team approves his posting for a Major League move.

Sports Hochi

Taira, who responded to the interview

On the 31st, Seibu Lions pitcher Kaima Taira (26) spoke to the press at Belluna Dome in Tokorozawa City, Saitama, following the approval of his move to the US Major Leagues via the posting system on the previous day, the 30th. He set his goal in the Majors as becoming the first Japanese player to win the Cy Young Award.

* * *

Taira had something he was secretly looking forward to. It was the 'beer shower' celebration that would have taken place if they had achieved their first league title since 2019 or their first Japan Series championship since 2008. Although he says he hasn't been drinking much lately because 'drinking alcohol makes my legs hurt—they get swollen, or rather, they start feeling tight halfway through like after weight training,' he smiled when the topic of the beer shower came up, saying, 'I'd love to try it.' He intended to explode with joy while raising his prized right arm, which unleashes fastballs boasting a top speed of 161 kilometers per hour.

However, the team unfortunately lost in the first stage of the Climax Series, and that dream did not come true. Then, on October 30, the club announced its approval for his move to the Major Leagues via the posting system. When speaking to the press, Taira shared his dream, saying, "I would be happy if I could play in the World Series." The day we see him enjoying a champagne fight—rather than a beer shower—may be near. (Seibu Lions reporter, Ayami Onaka)

Featured
Featured
Pacific League News

Seibu Lions' Kaima Taira spoke about "unfinished business," saying "I'd like to try it," as the team approves his posting for a Major League move.