Hideki Irabu Off To Japan In Comeback Quest

Published on August 7, 2009 under Golden Baseball League (GBL)
Long Beach Armada News Release


San Ramon, CA August 7, 2009 - The Golden Baseball League announced that RHP Hideki Irabu of the Long Beach Armada is heading off to Japan to showcase his pitching in front of Japanese professional teams in a continuing effort to return to the highest levels of the game. He will be signing with an independent club to give him the ability to demonstrate his abilities and generate interest, and potentially a contract, from one of the Nippon Professional Baseball teams -- the major leagues of Japan.

"Irabu was very impressive for us and I believe he can get hitters out at the top levels in Japan," said Long Beach Armada manager Garry Templeton. "He's throwing in the 90s, has excellent control, an assortment of pitches, and is in great physical shape. It was a pleasure having him with us this year and we wish him well in Japan."

Irabu, 40, returned to professional baseball for the first time in 4 years this season as he signed with the Long Beach Armada in April. Fully recovered from knee surgery, with his arm as strong as ever, he posted a 5-3 record with an E.R.A. of 3.58 (6th best in the league). He made 10 starts as he racked up 65 innings pitched and struck out 66 batters while walking only 19.

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