Hokkaido Nippon Ham Fighters right-hander Shohei Otani said Monday he has told club officials of his desire to try his luck in the major leagues from 2018.

The 22-year-old, who re-signed with the Fighters in a deal worth ¥270 million ($2.37 million) for the 2017 season on a ¥70 million pay raise, told officials he is eyeing the move in as early as the 2017 offseason.

"I know that the club will respect my will whenever I decide I want to go (to the majors). It is pleasing to get that support and I'm thankful for it," said Otani, the holder of NPB's fastest pitch record at 165 kph.