The Seibu Lions are making notable moves in the off-season, aiming to improve upon a three-year stretch in the B-tier of Japanese professional baseball. The team announced today the signing of Taiwanese power hitter Lin An-ko and, separately, reached an agreement with veteran outfielder Kensuke Sanbara, marking their most significant free agent acquisition as 2015 [[2]]. General Manager Hiroshi hiroike expressed optimism that these additions will provide a much-needed boost to the Lions’ performance moving forward.
Lin An-ko has joined the Seibu Lions. (From the official Seibu X account)
The Seibu Lions have reached an agreement with two-time Golden Glove Award winner and former Japan Series MVP Kensuke Sanbara, marking their first significant free agent acquisition since signing Noboru Kimura after the 2015 season. Seibu Lions General Manager Hiroshi Hiroike explained the reasoning behind the move.
The Seibu Lions recently announced the signing of Taiwanese power hitter Lin An-ko, who will wear jersey number 73. According to reports, the deal is a two-year contract worth an estimated ¥150 million (approximately NT$30.69 million). Now, with the addition of Sanbara via free agency, the Lions are demonstrating a clear intent to bolster their roster. Hiroike stated, “We are truly delighted and very much looking forward to having a reliable player who can make the team stronger next year.”
Reports indicate that Kensuke Sanbara primarily patrols center field. However, the Lions have already seen the emergence of 26-year-old Aiya Nishikawa, with solid performances from Seiya Watanabe and Shinya Hasegawa. Coupled with the addition of Lin An-ko as a new foreign power hitter, the Lions’ decision to pursue Sanbara underscores their commitment to strengthening the team. Sanbara said, “Adding an experienced player can further stimulate everyone’s growth. Now is the time for players to overcome challenges in order to play. The goal of bringing me in is to accelerate the process of getting stronger.”
Hiroike also revealed that during negotiations with Sanbara, the possibility of him playing both corner outfield positions was discussed. He added that Sanbara’s determined attitude and unwavering desire to win are qualities the Lions have been lacking and desperately need. Hiroike concluded, “We’ve been in the B-tier for three consecutive years, and we can’t remain indifferent any longer.”
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