Neo-Tokyo announces promotions and roster moves:
José 'Slap' Fernández Going 7-4 with a 1.62 ERA and 161 K in 121 IP with Niigata (AAA), Fernández appears ready for the big leagues. The lefty SP was the 3rd overall selection in the 2023 Amateur Draft and is ranked as the #4 prospect in the PEBA. Per manager Shinichi Seki he will get his feet wet in the bullpen but is destined for the starting rotation.RF Tomás Martínez The 16th overall pick in 2022 Martínez has picked it up a notch this year at Niigata, batting .305 with 9 HR and is ranked as the #5 prospect in the PEBA. He also got the ticket to Neo-Tokyo and will immediately be inserted in the starting lineup.
"He's a guy that needs to play everyday to be at his best. We're not bringing him here to ride the pine", affirmed Seki.
The team also promoted 28 year old 1B Chuck Glass to replace the ailing Koshiro Nakashima, who was placed on the 15 day disabled list. Glass was batting .261 with 19 HR and 69 RBI in 82 G with Niigata.
To make room for the new additions OF Bob Blanchard (.222/69 K) was optioned to AAA and RP Akihito Matsuo (5.92 ERA/1.60 WHIP) was designated for assignment.
Also making waves are Alfonso Ramos (7-6/ 2.55 ERA), OF Jeffrey Grier and CF Cal Morrissey (.306 BA)
NT also has free agent signee P Jorge Jiménez coming off suspension and getting a look in Triple A. He lead the WIL in wins and WHIP last season.
Masaru Kouki (9-3/ 3.37 ERA) is also itching for a shot at the big leagues.
With burgeoning stars in the #2 ranked farm system reaching their potential Akira fans may see new faces make their way to Neo-Tokyo in the second half of the season.