Source: Hanshin Tigers Official (for more pictures)
On Saturday, August 5th, right-handed pitcher Colten Brewer had his opening press conference in Nishinomiya.
―How do you feel upon your arrival in Japan?
I feel great. I’m really happy to be able to come to Japan in these circumstances. I want to get on the field and start playing as soon as possible.
―What is your first impression of Japan?
It’s a beautiful country. It’s great to be able to open the windows and look out at the mountains. I wasn’t able to experience that in America, and I just think this is a beautiful city. Hopefully someday, I’ll be able to call this my home away from home.
―What is your impression of the Hanshin Tigers?
I’ve heard they are kind of like the Red Sox are in America. The fans are really passionate and the stadium is packed every night. I’m really excited to play in front of the fans here.
―What was the deciding factor in signing with the Tigers?
It was more about the loyalty of Japanese people that got my attention, more so than the Tigers themselves. I was so happy to get a chance to come out here and play, and I knew I had to go for it. I’m glad to have been given this chance by the Tigers.
―What are your strengths as a player?
I have a lot of confidence in my curveball and my cutter. Hopefully, I can mix them in well and contribute to the team in that way.
―What’s the maximum velocity on your fastball?
My fastest ever was 99 miles per hour (159 km/h) but this year it’s more like 97-98. It’s consistently over 90, but to me, it’s not about velocity so much as it is about getting movement, even on the faster pitches. There are times when speed becomes important, but I hope to be able to get batters out in a variety of ways, depending on circumstances.
―Your cutter is your best pitch? Do you have confidence in it?
Actually, I have the most confidence in my curveball. I have confidence in my cutter as well, but this year I have been throwing a slider as well as a two-seamer. The pitches I have thrown all along are important, but I want to mix in the new pitches I learned, too.
―Have you heard anything about how Japanese hitters approach the game?
I’ve heard from a lot of people that they are really good at making contact. I am not sure if they have the same power as major leaguers, but regardless, I hope I can record a lot of outs just by putting my best foot forward.
―The Tigers once had another closer, Rafael Dolis, who wore #98 in the past.
I’ve never met him in person, but I have seen video footage of him wearing #98. He had a really good arsenal.
―Please give a message to the fans.
I can’t wait to show you all what I’ve got out there on the mound. I will do my best for the team.
―Is there anything you’d like the fans and your teammates to call you?
I’ve had a few nicknames in the past, but the most common was CB. I’ve also been called Brewski and Cold Brew, which is probably the newest nickname I’ve been given.