MLB: Former Players Find Success in Japan’s Top League

Apr 17, 2015; Kansas City, MO, USA; A general view of baseballs prior to a game between the Kansas City Royals and the Oakland Athletics at Kauffman Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Peter G. Aiken-USA TODAY Sports
Apr 17, 2015; Kansas City, MO, USA; A general view of baseballs prior to a game between the Kansas City Royals and the Oakland Athletics at Kauffman Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Peter G. Aiken-USA TODAY Sports
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Honorable Mentions

Brett Davis-USA TODAY Sports
Brett Davis-USA TODAY Sports

Though there are over 30 players who have MLB experience playing in the NPB, not all made the cut. A good half had such brief MLB careers that they were not worth mentioning. Some have little to no experience in the NPB league and have not proved themselves there yet. Here are the ones that were close to making the list but could not due to their limited time in Japan:

SP Felipe Paulino, Saitama Seibu Lions: 470 ERA in 9 games

SP Kyle Davies, Yakult Swallows: 3.96 ERA in 13 games

RP Steve Delabar, Hiroshima Carp: Just recently signed

IF Brent Morel, Orix Buffaloes: .683 OPS in 94 games

OF Jonny Gomes, Tohoku Rakuten Golden Eagles: .526 OPS in 18 games

OF Garrett Jones, Yomiuri Giants: .262/.338/.507 with 22 HR in first season

OF Dayan Viciedo, Chunichi Dragons: .272/.349/.487 with 21 HR in first season

OF Brian Bogusevic, Orix Buffaloes: .601 OPS in 60 games

Next: A 9-year MLB Vet