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Indian pitcher Akshay More signs with Japan's Seibu Lions
Before signing with the Lions, More competed in Baseball United, a professional baseball league focused on the Middle East and South Asia
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Bhavana P - Mon, 27, Jul 2026
- 17:26 EDT
- 18
Akshay More / Seibu Lions
Indian pitcher Akshay More has signed with the Seibu Lions as a development player for the 2026 season, becoming the first Indian to sign a professional contract with a club in Japan's Nippon Professional Baseball (NPB).
The Seibu Lions announced the signing as part of their Global Strategy initiative, launched in late 2025 to identify and develop international talent while expanding the club's global player pipeline.
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The Lions said they were impressed by More's athleticism, smooth pitching mechanics and long-term potential during a team tryout in June. Although he has only six years of baseball experience, club officials cited his work ethic and commitment to improvement as key reasons for offering him a developmental contract.
According to the team, More throws a fastball that reaches up to 150 kilometers per hour (93 mph) and complements it with a sinker, splitter, changeup and curveball.
"I am truly grateful to the Seibu Lions for giving me this incredible opportunity. I will continue to work hard every day, learn from my teammates and coaches, and do everything I can to contribute to the team's success. My goal is to become a player our fans can be proud of, and I look forward to growing both as a player and as a person with humility and dedication. I can't wait to meet everyone soon,” More said in a statement.
Koji Hiroike, the Lions' executive director of baseball operations, said playing in Japan had long been More's dream. He also praised the pitcher's character and athletic background, noting that More was runner-up at India's national judo championships.
Before signing with the Lions, More competed in Baseball United, a professional baseball league focused on the Middle East and South Asia. Hiroike said More's performance there, followed by his showing at the Lions' June tryout, convinced the organization of his future potential.
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