Kobayashi joins the Tigers

Lotte's ex starter and relief pitcher Hiroyuki Kobayashi has decided to accept Tigers offer for his services. Figures being bandied about suggest a three year deal worth around 700 million. Kobayashi had initially intended to go to MLB but would only accept a full team offer. He was not interested in minor league or split offers and as these were the only ones he received he rejected them all.
Tigers indicated an early interest and pusued Kobayashi assiduously. They kept the No. 41 available for him and arranged a room in the hotel for spring training for him as well. Kobayashi was flattered by this attention and today finally agreed to join the Tigers. One can only view this signing as a good thing - Kobayashi will add depth to the relief and take the pressure off Kubota and Fujikawa. After the debacle of the signing of Fujii and Kato it seems things are back on track. In addition Marines are likely to take cash compensation instead of a player which is also good for Tigers. For the Tigers there is also the possibility of Kobayashi closing and taking the strain of some games off Fujikawa.

Lotte have decided to take Takahama in part compensation for Kobayashi leaving. He was one of Tigers 2007 draft picks but has not yet broken into the top team.