The San Diego Padres made waves when they signed Japanese relief pitcher Kazuhisa Makita to the a two-year deal. Makita is likely to work in middle relief and will solidify San Diego’s bullpen ahead of closer Brad Hand.
Makita also brings an interesting submarine pitching motion to the West Coast. Much like Brad Ziegler of the Marlins and Steve Chisek of the Cubs, Makita’s arm almost hits the ground before he throws his pitch. That motion leads to many ground ball outs and could lead to more strikeouts stateside.
Makita’s signing certainly excited Padres’ fans as the team now has a new, fun pitcher to watch.