The Seibu Lions said Monday they have acquired the services of John Wasdin, a right-hander who has 39 major league career wins and formerly pitched for the Yomiuri Giants.
Wasdin, 36, who went 9-6 with three saves and a 3.51 ERA for the St. Louis Cardinals' Triple-A affiliate with no big league appearances last season, has agreed to a one-year contract carrying a salary of ¥50 million.
Wasdin posted a 1-4 record with a 4.54 ERA with the Giants in 2002. "He is a fastball pitcher. He has improved his pitching arsenal since his time with the Giants," said Seibu club official Kosuke Maeda.
Wasdin is expected to bid for a spot in the 2008 Japan Series champions' starting rotation.