Source: Hanshin Tigers Official
The Hanshin Tigers announced on Monday that they are bringing back outfielder Jerry Sands, pitchers Jon Edwards and Joe Gunkel, plus infielder Jefry Marte, for the 2021 season.
Yet to be announced, but assumed to be done deals are contracts with 2020 closer Robert Suarez, KBO MVP Mel Rojas Jr, KBO wins leader Raul Alcantara, and LHP Wei-Yin Chen of the Chiba Lotte Marines. This would bring the import total back to 8, which it was at for all of 2020. A minimum of three imports would have to start the 2021 season on the farm.
Comments from the returning imports:
Sands – I’m really happy and excited to be able to return to the Tigers next year. I had such a good time this past year, but hopefully, I can contribute even more next year and the Tigers can win the pennant.
Edwards – I’m really excited. Everyone in the organization was so kind to me and my family, and I believe God has a real purpose in sending me to play for the Tigers. I’m looking forward to getting back out there and playing for a pennant next season.
Gunkel – I’m excited to have another chance to play with the Tigers next year. It’s a real blessing to play with such great teammates and in front of such wonderful fans, and I’m really looking forward to getting back out there next year to do it all over again.
Marte – I’m really happy to be able to come back to play for the Tigers and work together with my teammates again next year. I’m going to be training hard this offseason to make sure that I can play injury-free and help the team to more wins.