JAPANESE HURLER NAITO JOINS AIGLES

A few weeks before the opening of training camp, the Trois-Rivières Aigles have just made a historic signing with the arrival of the first pitcher from Japan in the history of the Trois-Rivières franchise: Kosei Naito!

"We are very proud to announce the signing of the first Japanese-born pitcher in the franchise's history! Kosei Naito has compiled some impressive stats during his time in the Australian League. He's capable of being a starter or a reliever, but I expect him to be one of our top three starting pitchers this season," said the Birds' coach.

In the winter of 2023-2024, Naito played for the Canberra Cavalry in the Australian League. In 8 appearances on the mound (10.2 innings), the 26-year-old right-hander posted a 3.38 ERA and a 1.50 WHIP. He also struck out 12 and walked just two.

"His fastball is 92-93 miles an hour and he's got good spin balls as well. His slippery ball and quick cut are very effective in getting strikeouts. His arrival with the Aigles is very exciting and I look forward to working with him. I hope he becomes a crowd favourite and I'm confident he'll bring a new dimension to our pitching staff," said manager Rusch.

Naito's signing joins outfielders Louis-Philippe Pelletier and Rodrigo Orozco, infielders Dalton Combs, Brendon Dadson, Brandon Hernandez and Edouard Savoie, as well as pitchers Osman Gutierrez, Didier Vargas, Logan Hofmann, Hernando Mejia and Michell Miliano. Receiver Willie Estrada also joined the group in a trade.

The Aigles will begin their 11th season history – their 3rd in the Frontier League – on May 10, 2024 when they visit the Sussex County Miners. As for the home opener at Stade Quillorama, it is scheduled for Friday, May 17, 2024 against the newest team of the circuit, the New England Knockouts