Former White Sox reliever leaves Mets to play in Japan originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

A few weeks ago, the New York Mets released a left-handed pitcher from the organization after he was designated for assignment.

There didn't seem to be much interest from other clubs around the Majors.

The pitcher was Anderson Severino, and at the time of his release, The Athletic's Will Sammon reported that he could pursue a playing opportunity in Asia.

On Monday, Nippon Professional Baseball's Hanshin Tigers announced that Severino signed a contract with the club in Japan.

"Severino has worked as a reliever for almost the entirety of his pro career, so he isn’t likely to explore a move to starting pitching in Nippon Professional Baseball," Mark Polishuk of MLB Trade Rumors wrote.

"A good showing in Japan could very well get Severino back onto the radar for big league teams down the road, or perhaps lead to a longer stint in NPB for the 31-year-old."

Severino spent the previous two seasons in the Mexican League.

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In 20.2 innings with Triple-A Syracuse, Severino posted a 1.31 ERA.

He last pitched in 2022 with the Chicago White Sox, allowing five earned runs with nine strikeouts and four walks in 7.1 innings.