Former Chunichi Dragons right-hander Kenshin Kawakami became the second high-profile Japanese free agent pitcher to join a major league team in the past week, and the scout who recommended him and the agent who worked out his contract say they are delighted with the agreement.
Following the signing of ex-Yomiuri Giants ace Koji Uehara by the Baltimore Orioles, Kawakami inked a lucrative deal with the Atlanta Braves.
Special assignment scout Chuck McMichael is the guy who watched Kawakami pitch in Japan on several occasions and suggested the Braves sign the 33-year-old hurler and 2004 Central League MVP.