Takashi Saito (born February 14, 1970 in Miyagi
Prefecture, Japan) is an All-Star relief pitcher for
the Los Angeles Dodgers. He is currently the team's
closer, replacing fan favorite Éric Gagné. Dodger
teammates refer to Saito by the nickname "Sammy,"
which was first used by outfielder Andre Ethier.
Saito previously pitched for the Yokohama BayStars
in the Japanese Central League, compiling a record
of 87-80 over 13 seasons. Like former Mariners
closer Kaz Sasaki, Saito attended Tohoku Fukushi
University in Sendai. His success as a closer down
the stretch in the 2006 season resulted in an 8th
place finish in National League Rookie of the Year
award, receiving two third place votes (Florida
Marlins shortstop Hanley Ramirez won the award).
This success also resulted in an 8th place finish in
the National League Cy Young Award, receiving a
single third place vote.
Saito finished 2006 with 24 saves in 26 chances,
sported a 2.07 ERA and led all big-league relievers
with 107 strikeouts. Lefties batted .229 off Saito,
righties .129. Home opponents hit .201 off him, road
opponents .152.
