Boston Red Sox: Koji Uehara retires in Japan

Former Boston Red Sox closer Koji Uehara has decided to call it a career.

One of the more iconic moments in recent Boston Red Sox history came at the end of the 2013 World Series. Koji Uehara had recorded the final three outs in Game Six to clinch the World Series, the Red Sox third championship in the 21st century. That image of Uehara leaping into the arms of catcher David Ross with his finger pointing to the sky in celebration was one of the more popular images of that season.

On Monday, the Red Sox postseason hero ended his playing career, as the 44 year old Uehara retired in Japan.

Uehara had quite the storied career, both in Japan and stateside. He was primarily a starter with the Yomiuri Giants before signing with the Orioles, posting a 112-62 record with a 3.01 ERA and 33 saves in his decade in his first stint in Japan.

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Although he began his American career in the Orioles rotation, it took a trip to the bullpen before Uehara found sustained success. Overall, in his nine seasons in the majors, he posted a 2.66 ERA and a 0.890 WHiP, notching 95 saves. In his 480.2 innings, Uehara struck out 572 batters while issuing only 78 walks.

As impressive as those numbers are, Uehara truly left his mark in Boston. During the 2013 postseason, he allowed only one run on seven hits in 13.2 innings, notching seven saves and taking home the ALCS MVP award. He had 79 saves in his four seasons with the Red Sox, posting a 2.19 ERA and a 0.810 WHiP, striking out 291 batters in 226 innings.

Following a season with the Cubs, Uehara returned to Japan following the 2017 season. He pitched in a middle relief role in 2018, faring relatively well before having some struggles this season. After allowing four runs on 11 hits and a walk over nine innings, it was time to walk away.

It was time for Koji Uehara to move on to the next chapter in his life. No matter where those journeys take him, he will hold a special place in the hearts of Boston Red Sox fans.