A couple more Japanese born players by request. I remember Aki from my days in Tampa and really enjoyed watching him. Too bad he got injured before more people got to appreciate him.
He came toTampa Bay as a third baseman until the arrival of Evan Longoria pushed him to 2nd base full time in 2008. As the Rays lead-off hitter and starting 2B, Aki teamed with Jason Bartlet to be an outstanding double play tandem. Eventuallly BJ Upton would take his place as the leadoff hitter for the Rays but not until after his injury.
Kenta Maeda was one of the most consistent Starters for the Dodgers for a few years and was second to only Kershaw in fWar during his time. But younger newer arms pushed him to the Bullpen and with his incentive laden contract banking on starter innings, he was forced to push for a trade.
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