After seven seasons with the Yankees, free-agent pitcher Masahiro Tanaka is returning to Japan to play for the Rakuten Golden Eagles in the Nippon Professional Baseball League.
Tanaka revealed his decision on Twitter in a message to his "beloved fans."
"I have decided to return to Japan and play for the Rakuten Eagles for the 2021 season," he said. "I wanted to make sure and touch base with you, and thank you for all the love and support you have given me for the past 7 seasons."
"I feel extremely fortunate for having the opportunity to take the field as a member of the New York Yankees, and play in front of all you passionate fans.