Taira Posted by Seibu Lions for MLB Move
Japanese right-hander Kaima Taira is available to MLB clubs this offseason after the Saitama Seibu Lions posted him.
Updated on Nov. 7, 2026 in Baseball
The Saitama Seibu Lions have posted 26-year-old right-handed pitcher Kaima Taira for the MLB offseason. Boston Red Sox may pursue Taira this winter.
Why it matters
Taira posted a 1.36 ERA in 2026 and has a career 1.85 ERA, giving MLB clubs a proven starter option from Japan's professional ranks. His availability could add international pitching depth for teams seeking affordable rotation help.
Taira's 2026 season produced a 1.36 ERA and a 141-to-45 strikeout-to-walk ratio across 146 innings and 23 appearances. His career spans 351 games and 633 2/3 innings with a 1.85 ERA, and his fastball can reach 100 miles per hour.
The players
Kaima Taira
A 26-year-old right-handed pitcher from Japan who has pitched professionally since 2018 with the Saitama Seibu Lions.
Saitama Seibu Lions
A professional baseball club in Japan's Pacific League that posted Taira for MLB consideration.
Boston Red Sox
An MLB franchise based in Boston that may pursue Taira this winter.
The details
Taira, listed at 5'8" and 209 pounds, has pitched professionally since 2018 with the Lions and has moved between the bullpen and rotation. The stub notes Boston would likely slot him in as a back-of-the-rotation starter if signed.
Timeline
2018: Taira began pitching professionally with the Lions.
2026: Taira posted a 1.36 ERA across 23 appearances.
November 7, 2026: The Lions posted Taira for the MLB offseason.
Pipeline Context
Taira's posting follows the established route by which Japanese professional pitchers reach MLB clubs through the posting system. His availability as an international option for Boston comes as MLB teams continue to look abroad for affordable pitching.
For Red Sox followers, Taira is a candidate to watch as a possible back-of-the-rotation addition this winter. Fantasy managers tracking international pitchers should note his 100-mph fastball and strong 2026 strikeout-to-walk ratio.
The takeaway
Taira's combination of a 1.36 ERA in 2026 and a 1.85 career ERA makes him a significant offseason option for MLB clubs. Teams weighing international pitching should watch how his posting unfolds.
What happens next
MLB clubs including the Boston Red Sox are expected to evaluate Taira during the offseason, though no specific dates have been set.
Further reading
For more on MLB's international pipeline, see Baseball.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Sports Illustrated.
