Yomiuri Giants' foreign pitcher also experiences "reverse export," Griffin signs a one-year contract with the Washington Nationals.

Foster Griffin, who was the key starting pitcher for the NPB Tokyo Yomiuri Giants during the past three years, has now made a successful "homecoming" back to the Major League system. On December 17, reports stated he will ink a one-year Major League deal with the Washington Nationals.

During the past three seasons, Griffin played 54 games for the Yomiuri Giants, pitching 315.2 innings, achieving an 18-10 win-loss record with a 2.57 ERA, and recording 318 strikeouts. With more players recently returning from Asian professional leagues to pursue careers in MLB, his performance has also attracted attention from Major League teams.

According to the Associated Press, Griffin has reached an agreement with the Nationals on a one-year, $5.5 million contract, which will become effective pending a physical examination.

It is worth noting that the Nationals dismissed General Manager Mike Rizzo and Manager Dave Martinez during the 2025 season. Paul Toboni took over as the new President of Baseball Operations in September, and Griffin is his first major signing since assuming the role.

Griffin made his Major League debut with the Kansas City Royals in 2020 and had limited appearances in 2022. In total, his MLB career includes 7 games pitched, 8 innings thrown, and an ERA of 6.75.