Three teams are reportedly interested, evaluating him as a later rotation starter; Mitsunari Takahashi is not considering a minor league contract.

Mitsunari Takahashi, starting pitcher for the NPB Seibu Lions, has used the posting system to pursue a career in Major League Baseball. Reports indicate that three teams are interested in him at this time. Additionally, Takahashi is only targeting a "major league deal," and if that goal is not reached, he might opt to come back to the Seibu Lions. The deadline for this posting negotiation is set for 5 PM EST on January 4, 2026 (6 AM Beijing time on January 5).

According to sources within American baseball circles, three teams have shown interest in Takahashi, but he is not considering minor league contracts or split contracts. A split contract is a special type where the player earns a lower salary if assigned to the minors and a higher salary if staying in the majors. Takahashi appears to see only a guaranteed major league contract as acceptable. Reports mention that some teams are evaluating him as a fourth or fifth starter in their rotation.

Compared to Tatsuya Imai, another Seibu Lions pitcher who also entered the posting system and is expected to secure a major deal worth up to $200 million, Takahashi’s anticipated contract is much smaller. Industry insiders note, "A few years ago, Takahashi was rated higher; his evaluation has declined somewhat in recent years, but teams still value his potential." If he ultimately receives only a minor league offer, Takahashi is expected to abandon his MLB pursuit and return to the Seibu Lions.

Takahashi posted a 0-11 record last year (2024), but improved this year (2025) with an 8-9 record and a 3.04 ERA. His career totals stand at 73 wins, 77 losses, and a 3.39 ERA.