What Happened to Masahiro Tanaka?
What Happened to Masahiro Tanaka?
By Oliver Wiener December 16, 2023 01:50
Masahiro Tanaka, a former professional baseball player from Japan, made a significant impact on the sport during his career. Known for his exceptional pitching skills, he played for the Tohoku Rakuten Golden Eagles in Japan and later joined the New York Yankees in Major League Baseball (MLB). However, in recent years, fans have been wondering what happened to Masahiro Tanaka and why he is no longer playing in the MLB. In this article, we will explore the reasons behind his departure from the league and shed light on his current status.
Early Career and Rise to Stardom
Masahiro Tanaka was born on November 1, 1988, in Itami, Hyogo, Japan. He began playing baseball at a young age and quickly showcased his talent. Tanaka attended Komazawa University, where he continued to excel in the sport. In 2007, he joined the Tohoku Rakuten Golden Eagles, a professional baseball team in Japan's Nippon Professional Baseball (NPB) league.
Tanaka's career in Japan was nothing short of remarkable. He consistently displayed impressive pitching skills, earning him the nickname "Ma-Kun" among fans. Throughout his time with the Rakuten Golden Eagles, Tanaka accumulated numerous accolades, including multiple All-Star selections and the Eiji Sawamura Award, which is given to the most outstanding pitcher in the league.
Move to Major League Baseball
Due to his exceptional performance in Japan, Masahiro Tanaka attracted the attention of numerous MLB teams. In 2014, he made the decision to join the New York Yankees. The Yankees signed him to a seven-year, $155 million contract, making him one of the highest-paid Japanese players in MLB history.
Tanaka's transition to the MLB was met with high expectations. He did not disappoint, as he quickly established himself as a formidable pitcher in the league. His signature pitch, the splitter, baffled opponents and earned him numerous strikeouts. Tanaka's strong performances helped the Yankees reach the playoffs in multiple seasons, and he often showcased his skills on the biggest stage.
Injuries and Decline in Performance
However, as the years went by, Masahiro Tanaka faced some challenges that affected his performance. Injuries started to plague him, causing him to miss significant playing time. One notable injury was a partially torn UCL (ulnar collateral ligament) in his pitching arm, which required Tommy John surgery in 2014. While he recovered and returned to the field, subsequent injuries, such as hamstring strains and forearm strains, continued to hamper his effectiveness.
These injuries took a toll on Tanaka's performance. His fastball velocity decreased, and he struggled to maintain consistency on the mound. Additionally, the wear and tear on his arm affected his ability to throw his signature splitter with the same effectiveness as before. As a result, his numbers began to decline, and he became less of a dominant force in the Yankees' rotation.
Contract Expiration and Return to Japan
In 2020, Masahiro Tanaka's contract with the New York Yankees expired. The team opted not to offer him a new deal, leaving him as a free agent. It was a surprising move for many fans who had grown accustomed to seeing Tanaka in pinstripes. However, the decision was driven by various factors, including his declining performance and the team's desire to invest in younger pitching talent.
After leaving the MLB, Tanaka returned to Japan and re-signed with the Tohoku Rakuten Golden Eagles, the team he started his career with. His return to the NPB was met with enthusiasm from fans who were eager to see him back in action. Tanaka's decision to return to Japan allowed him to be closer to his family and continue playing the sport he loves.
Current Status and Legacy
As of now, Masahiro Tanaka continues to play for the Tohoku Rakuten Golden Eagles in the NPB. He has shown glimpses of his former self, reminding fans of his exceptional talent. While injuries and declining performance may have hindered his MLB career, Tanaka's legacy remains intact. He will always be remembered as one of the greatest Japanese pitchers to have played in both Japan and the United States.
Tanaka's impact on the sport extends beyond his on-field performance. He paved the way for other Japanese players to make their mark in the MLB, inspiring a new generation of talent. His professionalism, work ethic, and dedication to the game serve as an example for aspiring athletes around the world.
Masahiro Tanaka's journey from Japan to the MLB and back to Japan again has been filled with highs and lows. While injuries and declining performance affected his time in the MLB, they did not overshadow his overall contributions to the sport. Tanaka's legacy will forever be remembered, and his impact on both Japanese and American baseball will not be forgotten. As he continues his career in the NPB, fans can appreciate the memories he created and the inspiration he provided to future generations of players.
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