FUKUOKA (Kyodo) The Softbank Hawks on Saturday announced the acquisition of former Kansas City Royals right-hander Anthony Lerew.
The 28-year-old American has agreed to a one-year contract and is expected to compete for a spot in the rotation.
Lerew picked up his first major league career win in June this year and ended the season with a 1-4 record and an 8.54 ERA in six starts.
"He is the type of pitcher who keeps hitters off-balance by mixing his down-angle fastball with a change-up," said Itaru Kobayashi, a Softbank official in charge of baseball operations.