One of Japan's most talented pitchers will have the opportunity to pursue a contract in North America.
The Seibu Lions announced Monday that they will officially post right-hander Tatsuya Imai this winter in hopes of securing a major-league deal.
"We decided that now was the right time and allowed him to take on the challenge of MLB," the Lions said in a statement. "He has consistently expressed a strong desire to play baseball in America, and as a team, we have respected that desire."