FanPost

SI Report: Pirates in on LHP Hisanori Takahashi

The Pirates are one of at least six teams interested in LHP Hisanori Takahashi, according to Jon Heyman at SI.com. The 34-year-old Takahashi is a free agent after 10 years with the Yomiuri Giants, where he posted up-and-down numbers as a starter. Last year, he put up a 2.94 ERA and 126/36 K/BB in 144 innings.

He wants to remain a starter and features a plus screwball and an 85-90 mph fastball, supplemented by a slider and curve. He likely wouldn't be a lefty specialist after lefties hit .300 against him (righties hit .250) last year.

The Giants and Dodgers are considered front-runners for his services, with the Mets, Red Sox and Padres also in the mix. A decision is expected this week.

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