Tigers Receive 27-Year Old RHP Takano in Return
The Hanshin Tigers got in on the midseason trade actions that have been going on around NPB in the past week or two. Their deal, however, does not appear to be one that will impact the team very much.
Right-handed reliever Tsuyoshi Ishizaki (28) has been sent to the Chiba Lotte Marines in exchange for right-handed reliever Keisuke Takano (27). Neither player has played much of a part in the team’s top squad games since season’s start, and this move is nothing more than a change of scenery for two guys who need a fresh start.
Ishizaki was a key component in the Tigers’ bullpen in 2017, but also struggled to stay healthy during his 4.5 seasons with the team. He commented via the club upon hearing of the trade: “I was kind of surprised because it happened so suddenly. I wasn’t able to make much of my 4.5 years with the Tigers because of all the injuries, but I hope to do a good job with Lotte as a way of showing my appreciation to the Tigers club and its fans. Lotte got me because they saw something in me, so hopefully, I can use what I learned with the Tigers to make a difference on their top squad.”
Takano also left a message for Lotte fans: “I got the call this morning and was really surprised to hear the news. I loved all the Marines fans, management, and all my teammates, so I’m pretty sad to move on, but I’m going to see this as an opportunity for a new start, and hope to get good results with the Tigers. I was told right from my rookie year that my best weapon was my fastball, so I want to follow that advice and continue to use it to compete against the CL hitters. Finally, thanks for the passionate support over the past 3.5 years. Your cheering was what gave me that extra push when I needed it. I loved playing for you! I’ll do my best with my new team, playing with passion but also keeping my cool.”
According to Wikipedia, Takano boasts a fastball that tops out at 152 km/h (94.5 mph) and also throws a slider and a forkball.
Welcome to your new home! We’ll miss you, Ishizaki! Hope you have a long, successful career in Chiba!