The Mets have released reliever Ryota Igarashi, reports Adam Rubin of ESPN New York. The Japanese right-hander signed a two-year, $3MM deal with the Mets in December 2009 but struggled to adjust to pitching in North America. Igarashi posted a 5.74 ERA and a 1.71 WHIP in 79 career appearances with New York and was designated for assignment by the Mets last January.
Since Igarashi and the Mets couldn't agree on a new deal, Igarashi is now a free agent due to a clause in his original contract with the club. The 32-year-old has said he wants to keep pitching in the Major Leagues.
Todd J Thomas
Thank you!
Blue387
He was not very good.
Henry Sanchez
he sucked
Lastings
The 2012 season will be that much more enjoyable now that he’s gone.
LongTimeFan1
I find it very hard to believe that Iggy and the Mets couldn’t work out a deal – that implies the Mets had interest in retaining him which sounds like a bunch of bull to me.
Joveoak
My understanding of both former Japanese players was this: Mets gave Iggy one extra year while Taka gets only one year. The Mets thought Iggy had more upside than Taka. Two years later, Taka has a great year with the Halos while Iggy struggles through his contract.
I highly doubt they have interest this time around.
Michael Mulligan
Or, sounds like Iggy was one of the worst pitchers in the game.