 An aging
hurler who has appeared with the Giants and
Hawks, Hiroaki Hirota joined the Swallows in 1997
and had his best season in seven years. Compiling
a 1-0 record with three saves and a 2.71 ERA in
63 innings, the right-handed middle reliever
struck out 37 batters while allowing 27 walks.
Since 1987, the 34-year-old pitcher
has compiled a career 19-10 record with 23 saves
and a 2.92 lifetime ERA.
With the loss of Masato Yoshii from
Yakult's pitching staff, and the shift of several
relievers into starting positions, Hirota will
likely remain a key middle reliever for Yakult.
|
|
 |
| #
14 |
| Middle
Relief |
| Pitcher |
| Born:
2-26-64 |
| Height:
176 cm |
| Weight:
76 kg |
| Bats:
Right |
| Throws:
Right |
|
