 Irabu led the Pacific League in wins in 1994 (15) and in ERA in 1995 and 1996 (2.53 & 2.40, respectively).He also led the Pacific League in strikeouts in 1994 and 1995 (239 & 167, respectively).In 1997, the San Diego Padres purchased Irabu's contract from the Chiba Lotte Marines.