Former MLB Sluggers Chavis, Davis Sign With Japanese Baseball Teams

Two former MLB players, Michael Chavis and J.D. Davis, are continuing their baseball careers in Japan's Nippon Professional Baseball league. Chavis, a 29-year-old infielder and former first-round pick by the Boston Red Sox, signed with the Chunichi Dragons after being released by the Los Angeles Dodgers to pursue more playing time and a better contract. Despite a solid Triple-A season batting .291 with 13 home runs, Chavis has not played in the Major Leagues since 2023 and seeks to revitalize his career overseas. Similarly, 32-year-old J.D. Davis, known for his power hitting with the New York Mets and San Francisco Giants, signed with the Seibu Lions following a disappointing stint with the Los Angeles Angels and a strong Triple-A performance. Both players view Japan as an opportunity to showcase their skills at a high level and potentially earn another chance in MLB. Their moves reflect a growing trend of MLB veterans opting for competitive international leagues to extend and strengthen their professional baseball careers.