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Reds could make an uncharacteristic move that strengthens their pitching staff

Signing a Japanese star would be a major coup for Cincinnati
ByAbigail Miskowiec
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Mar 14, 2026; Miami, FL, United States; Japan pitcher Hiromi Itoh (14) delivers a pitch against Venezuela in the sixth inning during a quarterfinal game of the 2026 World Baseball Classic at loanDepot Park. Mandatory Credit: Sam Navarro-Imagn Images
Mar 14, 2026; Miami, FL, United States; Japan pitcher Hiromi Itoh (14) delivers a pitch against Venezuela in the sixth inning during a quarterfinal game of the 2026 World Baseball Classic at loanDepot Park. Mandatory Credit: Sam Navarro-Imagn Images | IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect

The likely departure of Brady Singer via free agency and Emilio Pagán’s decision to opt out of his contract has created opportunities up and down the Cincinnati Reds’ pitching staff. It’s a relatively thin market this offseason, so the Reds may need to look in new places for help. Japanese standout Hiromi Itoh fits the bill perfectly.

The right-handed Itoh contrasts most of the arms in Cincinnati’s rotation. He stands just 5-foot-9 and relies more on control than dominance. Importantly, in his six professional seasons with the Nippon-Ham Fighters, Itoh has eclipsed 150 innings each year, and he is coming off a season in which he pitched 172⅔ innings in just 26 games. Andrew Abbott led the Reds in innings pitched in 2026, but it took him 32 games to reach 166 innings.

The Reds should look to Japanese star Hiromi Itoh to shore up the pitching staff

The adjustment to the grind of Major League Baseball from the NPB can be difficult, but that may present the Reds with an opportunity to shift Itoh’s role. Thus far in his career, he has been a starter, and his ability to eat innings would be a boon in the starting rotation.

However, he could follow the Nick Martinez path and shift to a hybrid role. The Reds’ bullpen needs more support, and Itoh could function as a long relief or setup man. He has experience pitching in relief for Team Japan in the World Baseball Classic.

The Reds could face stiff competition in signing Itoh. On the one hand, he will turn 30 during the 2027 season, and his age and size could cause teams to shy away. On the other hand, he is versatile, fun-loving, and able to handle big moments.

Unlike the Los Angeles Dodgers, Seattle Mariners, and Chicago White Sox, the Reds have not established a relationship with the NPB. The relatively small market of Cincinnati may present challenges to Itoh finding his footing in a new league and country.

Still, it’s worth a shot for the Reds to make a legitimate run at the Japanese right-hander. The strategies of the past simply aren’t working; it’s time to try something new.

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