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New York Yankees: Masahiro Tanaka refutes Yankees or bust reports

By David Hill

SAN DIEGO, CALIFORNIA - OCTOBER 07: Masahiro Tanaka #19 of the New York Yankees heads back to the dugout against the Tampa Bay Rays during the second inning in Game Three of the American League Division Series at PETCO Park on October 07, 2020 in San Diego, California. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images)
SAN DIEGO, CALIFORNIA - OCTOBER 07: Masahiro Tanaka #19 of the New York Yankees heads back to the dugout against the Tampa Bay Rays during the second inning in Game Three of the American League Division Series at PETCO Park on October 07, 2020 in San Diego, California. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images) /
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There had been a report that Masahiro Tanaka would consider playing either for the New York Yankees or in Japan. He is saying otherwise.

Even before free agency began, there had been speculation that Masahiro Tanaka could look to return to Japan. There had been reports that Tanaka’s former team, the Rakuten Eagles, could look to make him an offer to return. It was possible that he had thrown his last pitch for the New York Yankees.

That speculation reached another level on Thursday. There had been reports that Tanaka would either sign with the Yankees or return to Japan, as he had no desire to pitch for any other team. As he is also reportedly looking to finish his career back in his home country, such a move would likely be the end of his major league career.

However, that is not necessarily the case. Tanaka took to Twitter on Friday to refute that report, saying that he is not limiting his options and is considering any team with interest.

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Tanaka posted a usually solid season in 2020, with a 3.56 ERA and a 1.167 WHiP over his 48 innings. He struck out 44 batters while issuing only eight walks, showing the excellent command that he is known for. Although he struggled a bit at the beginning of the year, Tanaka was able to right the ship to help the Yankees playoff push.

While New York would seemingly want to bring him back, Tanaka is not atop their list of priorities. The Yankees are focused on trying to bring DJ LeMahieu back into the fold, and are then expected to turn their attention towards Tanaka. Likewise, other teams may be focused on the Trevor Bauer Sweepstakes before looking to the Yankees’ pitcher.

That does not detract from what Tanaka could do for another team. There are several teams that have postseason aspirations but need plenty of help in the rotation. While Tanaka may not be an ace, he is a solid second or third starter on a playoff caliber team, a steady arm that can help any franchise take that next step.

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Masahiro Tanaka will have plenty of suitors. It makes sense that he would not limit himself to the New York Yankees or going back to Japan.

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