CTBC Brothers sign Japanese pitcher Shota Iimura after amateur league dominance

The CTBC Brothers have signed Japanese pitcher Shota Iimura, who recently dominated Taiwan's top amateur baseball league. Iimura, formerly with the Taichung Taisun Dragons, earned the pitching award in the amateur league's spring season, showcasing impressive form that has led many to believe he can succeed in the professional Chinese Professional Baseball League (CPBL).

Under league rules, Iimura is eligible to play in the CPBL's second division with his testing contract. In the spring league's preliminary round, he appeared in five games, starting four. His record stood at 3 wins, 0 losses, with 1 save. He posted an exceptional earned run average of 0.93 and a WHIP of 0.90 over 29 innings, striking out 23 batters while issuing only two walks.

Brothers' manager, Trey Hillman, acknowledged Iimura as a capable pitcher who is eager to play professionally. Hillman drew inspiration from the positive impact of Japanese pitcher Masaki Takashio on the Uni-President Lions, hoping Iimura can achieve similar success. "I hope Shota Iimura can be a 'second Masaki Takashio' and perform well in the professional league," Hillman stated, encouraging the pitcher to strive for such an outcome.

Hillman also commented on the successful integration of other Japanese pitchers in the CPBL, such as Suzuki Shunsuke and Yudai Abe of the Fubon Guardians. He attributed their success to their strong competitive spirit, attitude, and diligent efforts, along with their good thinking abilities. Hillman expressed his anticipation that these qualities will positively influence the CPBL and its local pitchers, demonstrating that Japanese pitchers can thrive in Taiwan.