The Saitama Seibu Lions announced the signing of a professional contract with Indian pitcher Akshay More earlier this week.

He becomes the first Indian player to sign with a Nippon Professional Baseball (NPB) organization for a development player contract for the 2026 season.

This signing is part of the club’s “Seibu Lions Overseas Strategy”, launched in November, 2025 to identify and develop the club’s international scouting network with the potential to succeed while expanding the club’s global player pipeline.

The Lions aim is not only to strengthen the organization but also to contribute to the continued growth of baseball around the world, unearthing talent in unique regions without baseball ties.

Despite playing baseball for approximately six years, his fastball is clocked in the low-90 mph range reaching 150 km/h and advanced repertoire that includes a splitter, sinker, changeup and curveball.

The 22 year old pitcher has previously played for the Mumbai Cobras of Baseball United and for the India national baseball team. More attended Shri Narayandas Ramdas High School and Junior College before studying at Lovely Professional University in India.

As a 194 cm right-handed pitcher, his potential impressed Lions scouts during a tryout held in June as he even brought a mixed athletic background as a former runner up in India’s Judo Championships.

Koji Hiroike, Seibu Lions Executive Director of Baseball Operations stated that the club was captivated by his integrity and character. Adding that they hoped he continues to grow with the Lions and becomes a beacon of hope for baseball players in India.

The club also praised his work ethic and potential. After performing well in Baseball United, the first professional baseball league in the Middle East and South Asia, his performance showed great promise in the tryout in June, leading to his signing.

“Pitcher More dreamed of playing baseball in Japan,” Hiroike said. “His greatest strength is the extension he generates from his tall frame. Combined with a fastball that reaches 150 km/h and a complete selection of breaking pitches, he possesses tremendous potential.”