Anthony Kay aims for MLB comeback after impressive stint in Japan
The former first-round draft pick of the New York Mets is setting his sights on a return to Major League Baseball. Anthony Kay, a left-handed pitcher who made waves during his time in Nippon Professional Baseball, is ready to make his mark once again in the big leagues.
A standout season in Japan
Kay’s recent performance with the Yokohama DeNA BayStars has drawn attention and admiration. Over the course of the season, he established himself as one of Japan’s top pitchers, dominating the league with an impressive 1.74 earned run average (ERA), a figure that not only highlights his effectiveness on the mound but also set a new single-season ERA record for the BayStars.
His ability to induce ground balls was particularly noteworthy, as he led the NPB with a groundball rate of 57.8%. This skill, combined with his average fastball velocity of 94.6 mph, made him a formidable opponent throughout the season.
A journey through MLB and beyond
Before his two-year tenure in Japan, the 30-year-old Kay spent five seasons in MLB, including two separate stints with the Mets. Drafted in the first round by New York in 2016, he showcased promise early in his career but faced challenges that ultimately led him to explore opportunities overseas.
Now, with a successful season behind him and a renewed sense of purpose, Kay is poised to leverage his accomplishments in Japan as he seeks a place back in the American league. His experience and development during his time in Japan could prove invaluable as he attempts to re-establish himself among the ranks of MLB pitchers.
The baseball community will be watching closely as Kay embarks on this new chapter of his career, hoping for a successful return to the league that first recognized his potential.
