The Yokohama BayStars signed pitcher Tomo Ohka, according to a Sanspo report passed along by NPB Tracker's Patrick Newman on Twitter. Newman notes that Ohka began his career with the BayStars. The Red Sox purchased Ohka's contract from the team in '98 and started him at Double A the following year.
Ohka, 34, posted a 5.96 ERA, 3.9 K/9, and 2.4 BB/9 in 71 innings for the Indians last year, allowing 18 home runs. Ohka had signed with a Mexican League team in March, but was quickly released.
I profiled Ohka in December of '06, back when he was holding out for a three-year deal. He's an interesting character.
I had no idea he was pitched last year. 18 HRs in 71 innings is a pretty nice ratio.
Good old Ohka. Has played in two Canadian provinces, now Japan again. A well travelled ballplayer. A questionable J.P. Ricciardi signing at the start of his tenure with the Jays I believe.
Ohka and Victor Zambrano were the 4 and 5 starters to start the jays season in 07, both were pretty much useless.
The also got John Thompson that year, I believe. He was immediately placed on the DL and I don’t think pitched more than two games for the Jays. Talk about a overhaul signing of useless vets.
Ohka and Victor Zambrano were the 4 and 5 starters to start the jays season in 07, both were pretty much useless.
Man the guy had/has an attitude problem.