The Seibu Lions’ new foreign pitcher Alan Wynns, 30, will make his first-team debut as the starter in the game against Nippon-Ham Fighters on the 17th at Es Con Field Hokkaido.
Wynns, a crafty right-hander, posted 12 wins in Triple-A with the Yankees last season. With ace Kona Takahashi heading to the majors, the Lions signed Wynns as a reliable starter capable of eating innings consistently.
Although he was delayed by right elbow soreness during spring training, Wynns has regained form after posting double-digit strikeouts in consecutive games in the minor leagues. He uses a slider and changeup to keep batters off balance.
Following his rehab start in the farm league on the 9th against the Chunichi Dragons at Cermik Field, Wynns said, “I pitched well both last week and today, so I think I made a strong impression.” Shortly after, he was informed internally that he would start on the 17th.
If Wynns delivers a strong debut, the Lions’ rotation will be further bolstered. Meanwhile, Haima Taira, 26, who was forced to leave his start on the 3rd against the Lotte Marines at ZOZO Marine Stadium, is expected to return with 11 days of rest on the 15th against the Fighters at Es Con Field.
In addition, So Sato, 23, who earned his first professional win in his first start on the 1st against Lotte, is considered a candidate for relief duty, though as of the 11th he has continued preparing as a starter.
