D-backs have shown interest in Japanese outfielder Shogo Akiyama
Dec 10, 2019, 11:48 AM | Updated: 12:57 pm
(Photo by Kiyoshi Ota/Getty Images)
(Photo by Kiyoshi Ota/Getty Images)
The Arizona Diamondbacks have shown interest in Japanese center fielder Shogo Akiyama, 98.7 FM Arizona’s Sports Station’s John Gambadoro has learned.
In addition to Akiyama, the team also likes Jackie Bradley Jr., per Gambadoro.
The 31-year-old has put together three straight seasons of at least 20 home runs, 179 hits and 106 runs scored.
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Last season with the Saitama Seibu Lions, Akiyama averaged .303 from the plate, compiling 179 hits, 20 homers, 62 RBIs and 112 runs scored in 143 games (590 at-bats). He registered 78 walks, while striking out 108 times, both career highs.
According to reports, the outfielder is at the MLB Winter Meetings in San Diego.
Akiyama is represented by the same agent, Casey Close, as former D-backs pitcher Zack Greinke.
Bradley Jr., 29, may still be a member of the Red Sox, but it appears that time may be coming to a close with rumblings that Boston is looking to move on from the outfielder.
Last season, Bradley averaged .225 from the plate, recording 21 dingers, 62 RBIs and 111 hits in 147 games with the Red Sox (494 at-bats).
