After months of discussion on whether or not the Japanese pitcher would come to the US, he has decided to join the New York Yankees, disappointing the fan bases of the Los Angeles Dodgers, Los Angeles Angels, Chicago White Sox, and Chicago Cubs, who were all rumored to be in the mix to land Tanaka.
The deal is worth $155 million over seven years and it includes an opt-out clause after the fourth year, according to reports.
Tanaka, 25, was dominant during his time in Japan. He went 24-0 with a 1.27 ERA in the Japanese League last year. Many also believe that his talent translates to him being a top of the rotation starter in the US.
The Yankees on top of the $155 million, had to pay a posting fee of $20 million to the Rakuten Golden Eagles, Tanaka’s team in Japan, just to be able to talk to him.
Tanaka will join outfielders Carlos Beltran, and Jacoby Ellsbury, along with catcher Brian McCann, on the revamped Yankees roster. According to many baseball analysts, Tanaka will be either a number one or two starter for the team.
The Yankees beat the Friday deadline of 5 p.m. for when a deal and physical had to have been completed.
In 175 games (2007-2013) for the Rakuten Golden Eagles, Tanaka was 99-35 with a 2.30 ERA and had 53 complete games which included 18 shutouts.
It is a risky deal but only time will tell whether or not it was the correct choice.
joshcolon 