Japanese pitcher Maeda expresses intent to move to MLB

TOKYO (AP) Japanese pitcher Kenta Maeda says he wants to play for a team in Major League Baseball next season.

Maeda on Tuesday told his Japanese team, the Hiroshima Carp, that he wants to move to the U.S. major leagues through the posting system.

Under the system, the Carp can demand $20 million in exchange for the negotiating rights to Maeda. Hiroshima officials said they would consider Maeda's request.

The 27-year-old right-hander is a two-time winner of the Sawamura Award given to Japan's top pitcher.

Maeda matched a career high in wins this season with a 15-8 record and a 2.09 ERA. He also helped Japan win the bronze medal at the Premier12 tournament which concluded on Saturday.