WEDNESDAY, 3:32pm: Tanaka's posting will begin Thursday morning and be completed by January 24th at 4pm CT, a source tells Mark Feinsand of the New York Daily News (on Twitter). Teams can place their bids – up to $20MM, of course – starting tomorrow morning (link).
TUESDAY, 9:50pm: Rakuten Golden Eagles president Yozo Tachibana announced that Tanaka will be posted, according to a tweet from Sankei Sports tranlsated by Dylan Hernandez of the Los Angeles Times (Twitter links).
9:23pm: The Golden Eagles will announce momentarily that Tanaka will be posted, according to Jim Allen of Kyodo News (on Twitter).
5:35pm: The Rakuten Golden Eagles have decided to post star pitcher Masahiro Tanaka, according to reports from Japanese outlets Sponichi (link) and Nikkan Sports (link). It's a turnaround from reports last week that indicated the Golden Eagles were leaning against allowing Tanaka to make the jump to MLB.
One MLB source tells David Kaplan of CSNChicago.com (on Twitter) that he believes the Cubs will not be outbid for Tanaka's services. Convincing Tanaka to come to Chicago, however, could prove to be problematic, according to that source. "This is exactly type deal that Theo [Epstein and] Jed Hoyer will be all in on. However, will Tanaka say no to the [Yankees, Dodgers, and others]? Not sure he will," the source told Kaplan (link).
Bruce Levine of 670thescore.com (Twitter link) adds that the Angels and Diamondbacks – who have been quite vocal about their fondness of Tanaka and overall need for a frontline starter – should also be in the mix for his services. Tanaka being posted also means good news for other free agent pitchers who have been in a holding pattern as clubs have waited for the top domino to drop.
Rakuten was planning a record NPB offer for Tanaka – roughly $7.7MM USD – but that's significantly less than what he's expected to get from an MLB club. One GM recently told Jon Heyman of CBSSports.com that Tanaka was certain to receive a deal worth more than $100MM if posted.
Per the Sponichi report, team President Yozo Tachibana acknowledged that the process is moving into its final stage. When asked if the team was set on a decision, Tachibana said, "Yes, it looks that way … We're completing the final procedures."
It seems likely that the Golden Eagles have been dragging their feet in large part because of the reduced posting fee that they would receive under the new system. While the Japanese clubs holding the rights to predecessors such as Daisuke Matsuzaka and Yu Darvish saw major financial windfalls, the new system caps Rakuten's maximum posting fee at $20MM.
Special thanks to Aaron Steen for his Japanese translation.
livestrong77nyyankz
Merry Christmas. Let the bidding begin.
Tony Matias
More like circus begin!
RobbyH619
Considering only 6 teams (dodgers, Yankees, rangers, mariners, angels and maybe a dark horse candidate like the orioles) have their sights set on him and realistically have a shot it’s more like a carnival not a full blown circus.
Rev0lution
Mariners have nothing to offer but Cano and a long stretch of ineptitude. The Rangers have pretty much spent their way out of the bidding with the Choo acquisition. The Angels are the epitome of free spending with no direction – they are a train wreck. The Dodgers can contend with the NYY, but they are stacked and they are not as desperate as the Yanks to pull out all the stops to secure another front-end SP. Any alleged “dark horse” bidders will remain in the dark without a leg to stand on (a 3-legged mule like the Cubs or Orioles is a joke not worth discussing).
This is a two team race and the NYY ABSOLUTELY will not be outdone to secure the anchor to their rotation for the next 5-7 years.
drwheelock
I have a feeling the biggest reason MLB attempted to negotiate a $20M posting fee, is that it would get ALL the small/medium markets involved, all while generating a higher salary for the player…which in turn impacts these large market teams that always push the Luxury Tax threshold.
The only problem with Yanks, LAD, and Angels is that these 3 are facing Luxury Tax issues.
Cubs are saying they won’t be outbid, but will Tanaka actually want to go to the Cubs? I really doubt it.
With Seattle’s 2014 payroll sitting at $80M, they have an amazing about to throw at him. Close proximity to Japan. Some of the top legendary Japanese players going thru Seattle: Kaz, Johjima, Ichiro (in his HOF years w/Seattle), and now Tanaka’s ex-teammate putting up #3 CyYoung numbers.
I really think he’s Seattle’s to lose! But of course each of us will be very biased towards each of our teams and why ‘our’ team will sign him. lol
Rev0lution
Dr, the luxury tax is not an issue for the NYY or the LAD; they aren’t cash-strapped. They both have lived in the $200M neighborhood for several years with no stress aside from the anguish of knowing they are putting money in the pockets of the smaller market clubs.
Your feelings about Seattle are pointless at this time because they are NOT a contender. Ichiro is CURRENTLY playing with the Yanks; Kuroda is CURRENTLY a Yankee; the legendary Godzilla Matsui is an advisor to the team. I think that has more drawing power than alluding to Asian players “passing through” Seattle. As far as the close proximity to Japan, he isn’t going home on off days. If you use that logic, Cano would still be in NYY. Cano went with the highest bidder and so will Tanaka.
In this case, no one will outbid the NYY. He would truly represent the final piece to their offseason plan and no team has the ability to outbid the NYY when they are determined to secure a player.
Curt Green
I hope NY goes over their $189 million limit and continues to share the wealth with everyone else.
slider32
That’s a given at this point!
Joe A
So do I. Then for their whole roster to be hurt and then all those players will laugh all the way to the bank. I loved this past year when however many millions of dollars were flushed down the drain because peopel go on the 60 day DL for a missing eyelash these days.
legaryd
Please refer to the attached example: Cliff Lee.
Yankee Pinstripes
Exactly how did that work out for Lee in Seattle, huh?
Jack 22
dodgers have lived in the 200mill neighborhood for several years? you mean 1?
Yankee Pinstripes
Yes one (so you got me on a fax paus). Well, welcome to the neighborhood from now on. I was actually trying to equate the Dodgers in the legendary strata with the Yanks, but on second thought, let’s see how they measure up:
NYY – 27 Championships, 40 pennants
Dodgers – 6 Championships, 9 pennants
That amounts to 21 years of championship catch-up by simple math.
Curt Green
Yankee fans….always living in the past.
Joe A
Cool. I wish I could jump on the bandwagon too….
Joe A
Seattle has a pretty high Japanese population so to say it’s “pointless” is arrogance on your part….
JoshReddicksWalkupSong
When you only have one place in the world a ball player can go to play at a higher level and for more money, you’re sort of at their mercy. MLB is a monopoly and I’m sure the $20 million cap was there way of leveraging that position, and making the owners happy in the process. Although, you have a great point about more teams being able to at least compete for these guys.
Yankee Pinstripes
You nailed it on the head. But the other teams only need to match or better the cash the NYY put on the table. SEA did it and now has Cano (they will most certainly regret that in 4-5 years, but they rolled the dice and won). Simply follow their lead.
Joe A
Not to mention Choo isn’t in pinstripes this year after his offer from them…
Ronald Thompson
Fact of the matter is, New York isn’t as hot a destination as it used to be. Players who want money join the Yanks. People who want to play baseball go elsewhere.
Bromacho
Good point about the Luxury tax issues, however the Angels would hardly be punished by much, they would only have to pay a little over 1m. It will be worth it.
legaryd
You’d think the Nippon’s players union had a say in this. I can’t imagine the Japanese league players enjoy a huge chunk of money that the player thinks is a part of his value and something he earned kept by ownership.
Seth Rollins
The posting fee does not factor in to payroll
BillB325
The Cubs have already identified as a serious bidder. I don’t think they’ll get him, just saying to insult teams, you never know when some FO falls in love with a player until the huge contract is signed.
Rev0lution
Bill, it wasn’t meant as an insult to the Cubs. I actually wish they would have a better turn of luck because they are a solid organization with great player history (Banks, Sutcliffe, Sutter, Sandberg, et el). But they are a snake-bit team that even the genius of Epstein is having trouble turning around.
They may indeed make a serious bid, but they don’t stack up to the history, allure and current contending status of LAD or NYY.
Also, look at the intangibles of Tanaka’s charismatic personality and his wife’s modeling aspirations. Where does that fit best: in the media-centric, mega-wattage cities of NY-LA (very similar to Japan) or Chi-town?
Dollar for Dollar, the NYY will not be outbid by anyone on this.
tbslim
So you have said, many many many times. Are you making an authoritative statement that the “NYY will not be outbid” or trying to convince yourself?
Yankee Pinstripes
Obviously, the 27 Championships and 40 pennants hasn’t resonated with the NYY haters, so “yeah” redundancy is mandated.
Guess what, I don’t have to “convince myself”, I’m a proud NY’er and live the thrill of ALWAYS having a team that goes ALL OUT to be the champion EVERY SINGLE YEAR.
FYI, “NYY will not be outbid” (just for the road).
tbslim
LoL. How many championships? I keep forgetting since most of them were so long ago. I’m sure the Yankees won’t be outbid either. They have no choice but go all out to get this guy. He’ll be the difference between finishing 3rd in the AL East versus 4th or 5th for the Yankees.
BK
Japan is not a city and you are the biggest NY homer on the boards. Its not that the Yankees cant afford Tanaka its that if they pay him 120mm it will cost somewhere in the neighborhood of 180/6y after their tax bill. This would essentially make him the highest paid pitcher in mlb history.
BillB325
Very respectful argument, sorry I read it the wrong way, Merry Christmas!
Phil Merkel
Don’t rule out the Rangers…if they can sign him, they can then trade one of their current starters (and other players) to free up $$$$$. The owners have deep pockets, so don’t count them out.
gammaraze
Exactly which of the Rangers pitchers are you going to trade to free up money?? They will NOT trade Holland, Darvish, or Perez. Harrison doesn’t make enough money to really warrant a trade to free up some money. Plus, his injury last year will make other teams weary of acquisition.
Phil Merkel
Believe it or not Holland has been mentioned as well as possibly Ogando. Though not a pitcher, throw Moreland into that mix. I cannot imagine Holland, but Ogando for sure.
gammaraze
Derek Holland took a HUGE step forward this year, and is signed to a very team friendly deal. The Rangers explore every avenue, but will only trade a player under the right circumstances. Holland will only be involved as the centerpiece for a true ace under control for a considerable length of time.
Phil Merkel
I just agreed with you on Holland…” I cannot imagine Holland…”
LazerTown
The Texas heat is enough to drive people mad though.
Phil Merkel
It’s hot for everyone, not just the Rangers!
Andy Todd
Yes please!
raffish
Sound and fury…
karkat
The Mariners have a rich history of Japanese players, and a Japanese ownership, and a large Japanese-American fanbase.
Mikel Grady
Cubs will out bid everyone . Don’t lose draft pick and young for when the cubs make playoff push. Theo kind of guy. Go cubs go
Dbacksfan44
How about the Dbacks and Cubs?
Commander_Nate
Perfect number for an “Anchorman” style front office battle…
jason 54
The Blue Jays are definitely in the top 5 favorites to get him, they have the means and the need for him. This has seemed what A.A. has been waiting for.
slider32
I would be surprised if he goes to the Jays, O’s, Mariners, or Cubs. I think he will go to a contender. Every team could use a pitcher like Tanaka, it just depends on how much you want to over pay for him and where he wants to go. This will be the first time a Japanese player has had his own choice.
Mrcopey2
Phillies already said they were in
Slappy McGee
Posting for show and realistically being in on a player are two completely different things
jasonpen
Obviously you haven’t been reading many of these articles… You left out the Cubs.
RobbyH619
Most people missed the sights set on him and have a realistic shot. Cubs, diamondbacks, phillies may have interest but it’ll come down to Dodgers, Yankees, Angels, mariners. If the dodgers or mariners can get tanaka that’ll eliminate their involvement in David price and save the prospects; thus they’ll toss 107 mill his way instead of 107 mil and prospects for price. That being said Yankees need an ace going forward and won’t hesitate to pull the trigger. Serious interest and really wanting him doesn’t qualify for a circus when really 4 teams will outdo the rest of the league.
burnboll
How do you know that teams like Washington, Cubs, Arizona, White Sox, Mets, Phillies and of course Boston, aren’t going to be in?
It doesn’t cost them a dime to post 20 million if they’re not signing Tanaka.
Logically, all 30 teams will post the 20 million fee, just to be in the conversation.
slider32
It’s one thing to post the 20 million and another to really try and sign him. This is going to be a big over pay and a big gamble for the team that gets him. The Yanks and the Dodgers appear to be the only teams that could absorb this kind of mistake.
burnboll
How do you know it’s going to be a huge overpay?
Slappy McGee
It is free bogus PR to post for everyone from now on, simply to feign interest,
Ronald Thompson
Oh please. Even if teams don’t need Tanaka, they’ll still pursue/bid him. He wouldn’t hurt, and if you lose, you can drive up the cost for the team that does win him.
N.K.T.
I hope he goes to anyone but the Yankees or the Dodgers
TheoHoyer
“Mystery team”
Vincent Paterno
Keep him away from the other AL East evil empire, too. Y’know, the one in Boston. (Would love to see him in a Nats uniform; then again, it’s not my money.)
Daniel Copans
Nats have four front line starters already, it wouldn’t make much sense to throw money at this guy. Now the O’s would be a fantastic destination but we all know that’s not happening.
Mrcopey2
Phillies
Frittoman626 2
I predict the Yankees will sign him, there too desperate in need of pitching to not sign him.
ariel777
Makes perfect sense to me.
mwagner26
If many teams pay $20 mill, he can pick which team to negotiate with. That all depends on what team he prefers.
Matt He.
no, he can negotiate with all of the teams that offer the maximum posting fee, basically like free agency with a 20 million dollar extra price tag to the winner.
Mitch Augustyn
Someone has to make up for the train wreck of Sabathia who gave up more runs than any pitcher in the AL last year. Still got to pay that contract though.
brian310
Christmas miracle!
dzuch
If the Dbacks can get him then they could take over the division
IamTinman
Riiiiiggghhhttttt! Good luck with that.
Taylor Hope
I don’t see why that’s not plausible.
TheRealRyan 2
I wouldn’t say it’s impossible, but I don’t think it’s likely. Even if Tanaka is a 4 WAR SP, they probably only added 8-9 wins. That still puts them 2-3 behind the Dodgers, regardless of what the Dodgers do.
Taylor Hope
I don’t think it’s likely either but it is baseball, where anything can happen. I expect the D-backs rotation to continue to make strides and I’m not so sure the Dodgers lineup will continue to be as good as last season. While I expect Hanley and Puig to still put up great numbers, I’d be shocked if either replicates their slashes from the previous year.
johansantana15
Because their pitching is leagues behind the dodgers….
Dbacksfan44
They would be serious contenders for a wild card but I dont see them beating the dodgers for first
Dbacksfan44
They would be serious contenders for a wild card but I dont see them beating the dodgers for first
Matt Galvin
Dodgers or Mariners or Diamondbacks or Red Sox.
matt luce
Mariners or topped out. Dbacks have no chance against big dogs. The angels are going to give him 150 +. Done deal. Arte likes all the foreign fans. Ala hideki matsui
Taylor Hope
Mariners aren’t actually topped out. Jack Z said they’re willing to spend for “the right guy.” Seems to me Tanaka would be the right guy since they want to add one more starter. Just got a fat new TV contract. They need to spend that cash.
livestrong77nyyankz
They got Hideki Matsui when he was at the edge of retirement..I really do not see how that is pleasing any fan,
Robert Muldhoon
M’s are not topped out. They still have 20 million at least to spend this year
wackymacky
It’s gonna take that much just to talk to Tanaka’s agent.
drwheelock
Luce “topped out”? Seattle with a $80M 2014 payroll right now, and Howard Lincoln telling media he will surpass the $95M budget from last year. Plus the add’l $25M this year MLB TV that every team gets, a paid off stadium at Safeco Field as of this past year, and buying out Direct TV for ROOT Sports Network.
Since it appears you are an Angels fan Matt, you should realize that Angels will be over the Luxury Tax “if” they end up signing Tanaka. So this $150M+ deal you are ‘thinking’ Angels get him for I think you are way off. I don’t see him going to the Angels personally, nor LAD, nor NYY for the same reason.
Jose Ochoa
angels will go over the luxury tax for the right player….. this is something that is needed for the team… the angels can go over the Luxury tax for one year and stay under the next im sure if arte goes all in like he did with pujols he will get tanaka facing darvis this year coming up
Dbacksfan44
Or Yankees
Dbacksfan44
Or Yankees
Rook
Well this should be fun. Sign him KT!!!!!
yankeestarz
It’s going to be a merry Christmas for one team out there.
acottonshirt
I would love to see him in Seattle with Iwakuma. He wants to play on the west coast, so we will see.
Tony Matias
Just a guesstimate, but he’s looking at 6-7/130MM. Not sure the M’s management would allow that, but the draw Ichiro brought was tremendous, so I would actually be surprised if the M’s weren’t up towards the top (didn’t say top) of the final bid.
Robert Muldhoon
M’s have 20 – 30 M left to spend. I think probably only the Dodgers and stankees may have more $ available.
LazerTown
Smart baseball commentary must always end with the stankees
johansantana15
the yankees have no money left if they want to stay under the luxury tax threshold.
drwheelock
I hate the Yankees, but if they decide to go over they might as well go all out and get their payroll back to the $220m range.
I read reports that ‘if’ they are over the luxury tax this year it will devastate their franchise for years to come, where as being over next year won’t have that impact.
It would have been better for the Yankees if Ratuken waited to post him until next offseason, then I would say noone would outbid the Yanks.
It’s gonna be VERY interesting…GO M’S!!!
Rev0lution
Dr, the NYY will NOT be devastated by staying in luxury tax purgatory. Are you really serious or is your Yankee hatred getting the best of you???
The Yanks enjoy operating in one of the most robust marketing arenas in the entire world. They have a lucrative TV contract. Their fan base is dedicated and will routinely fill out every home game and they effectively leverage the power of their brand monetarily all over the globe. Exactly how do you suspect that they are suddenly going to be belly up if they bust the “189” goal?
Adding Tanaka will re-energize the fan base. It will also open up additional marketing opportunities. I’m sure they will secure some revenue deal with a major Japanese media provider to simulcast Tanaka’s scheduled days on the mound. Other revenue streams will present themselves for the NYY to reap the benefits from AND, assuming the team is successful, they will have the foundation to build the post-Jeter era with.
You can have Cano. We’ll gladly take McCann, Ellsbury, Kuroda (again), Beltran and Tanaka as our big haul during the Hot Stove season.
At least Jack Z and Jay Z can share a Vente Mochalatte at Starbucks.
JacobyWanKenobi
It’s amazing how many more M’s fans there are now, compared to a month ago.
Tony Matias
That may be true, but in my defense, I have rooted for this team and their losing seasons for a very long time.
JacobyWanKenobi
Which I have no problem with, and I hope for your and similar fans’ sake they can field a competitive team for a while. It’s just hard seeing band-wagoners all over the place (which i regrettably see being a Yankees fan all the time).
LazerTown
Teams need the bandwagoners though. Is a great source of revenue for them.
JacobyWanKenobi
Which I have no problem with, and I hope for your and similar fans’ sake they can field a competitive team for a while. It’s just hard seeing band-wagoners all over the place (which i regrettably see being a Yankees fan all the time).
Mitch Augustyn
Thats why the Yankees attendance and viewership has been dropping. Yankees are all about name recognition to bring in the fans and sell those jerseys. They will have to build up that minor league system and get some pitching if they have hope of going anywhere.
Yankee Pinstripes
The Yankee hatred doesn’t cease. Even with SLIGHTLY diminished attendance and fallen viewership on YES, their attendance records still outpace almost 90% of the league and the viewership radius is GLOBAL (YES is broadcast in some capacity over the span of the planet with Yankee fans from Mali to Melbourne).
Sure, the team is about BRAND recognition. What successful franchise isn’t???? Who – Starbucks? Macy’s? Apple? Dallas Cowboys? Los Angeles Lakers? That is the ultimate goal of business; to have your BRAND valued across the globe.
As far as “going somewhere” I guess 27 Championships and 40 pennants is pittance to you, huh? This is the FIRST year we have missed the playoffs in eons and ONLY by what 7 games with a beat up and broken lineup. Not too shabby by ANY standards.
Now we’ve restocked and are poised to return to the postseason with McCann, Ellsbury, Beltran, Kuroda (again) and soon to be, Tanaka.
Next argument.
Mitch Augustyn
Big stars do not win Championships and never have good players do. Look at the Championships teams of Luis Soho, Scott Brosius and Girardi. No All Stars there but a team of clutch players. What those teams had were great pitching and good defense. When you lose a 43 and 41 year old player and you restock and the team gets older something is wrong. Better get some pitching because a team with not a single position player under the age of 30 and most players best seasons come at 30 or less shows the direction the team is going. Losing their only All Star did not help either. No argument at all here. Its just facts and facts are that Yankee attendance has fallen ever year since 2009. BTW..Yankee way overpaid for McCann who has been going down hill for 4 years. Catchers after the age of 33 fall off in production. Fact is Thurman Munson was done at 31 and signing him to a 5 year with option for a sixth and paying twice what Saltalamacchia means they paid double what he is worth. Salty is better catcher hitting 42 doubles last season and hitting 25 hrs the year before.
Mitch Augustyn
It was a beat up line up because they were old brittle player. How about 4 outfielders over the age of 35 this year; Ichiro, Vernon Wells, Soriano and Beltran. Well maybe if it was 2005. With Yankee ticket prices they have to win because New Yorkers do not support losing teams especially when $50 box seats are close to $400 a piece. They had low attendance even when best seats were $6 a piece. Guess we will see but its all about pitching.
Yankee Pinstripes
For the umpteenth time, “189” is a goal, NOT a mandate. The overarching mission of the NYY is to ALWAYS field a CHAMPIONSHIP level squad and trepidation of the luxury tax will not deter that now or ever.
The Steinbrenners are still the owners and they understand the importance of accentuating the brand.
If Tanaka is a $15-20M grab, the NYY will not have any problem accommodating his #.
Robert Muldhoon
M’s have 20 – 30 M left to spend. I think probably only the Dodgers and stankees may have more $ available.
TheoHoyer
Get em Cubs. 6 years/150 million. He has no other reason to sign in Chicago other than the money.
Jason Johnson 2
Definitely looks like the Cubs will get him and I’m happy about that.
Yankee Pinstripes
Cubbies have a better chance of signing Mr. Magoo than of getting Tanaka. Theo is a genius, but your team is NOT a contender and Tanaka is NOT coming fresh off a Championship to join a team mired in a millenial swoon that also holds the dubious record of both the longest league pennant drought and the longest World Series drought in history.
Sorry!
You’ve got to plug the holes in the life raft before you take on passengers.
drwheelock
That’s like Felix, Kershaw money for a SP that’s never played in MLB. I just don’t see him hitting that high of $$$ personally.
Matt He.
Kershaw money will be like nothing anyone has ever seen before. He is going to by far get the largest contract for a pitcher, and probably anyone, in baseball history.
drwheelock
The Cubs don’t even have a decent team to bring him to, and a long ways from contending, and a LONG ways from Japan to visit!
BillB325
money
meinhardt1992
what are you talking about!? the Cubs are on the cusp of contending and should have at least a 70-80 win season this year. and by next year we should be starting to contend Tanka can only help our team and would be a great center piece to work the rotation around…Castro and Rizzo should improve, and we have Almora, Baez, Bryant, and Soler all coming up within the next year or two not to mention Lake who did decent last year in his rookie season
Yankee Pinstripes
On the “cusp of contending”? Hmmm, about the same as saying “on the cusp of winning MegaMillions”.
Cubbies have been saying that since 1908.
I know you guys love your team, but GEEZ!
You are NOT a contender!
Kyle B.
A $170MM commitment for a guy that hasn’t thrown in MLB is rough. Then again, Darvish cost the Rangers about $108MM.
Kyle B.
Hoping the Rangers can convince him.
Phil Merkel
It’s possible….if they can sign him, then they have the flexibility to trade a SP, Ogando, and Moreland for a DH-type (if it really takes that much to get one). That would free up some $$$$ to allow this to happen.
Guest 3877
Buckle up, friends.
Taylor Hope
Mariners better push hard for him… Tanaka definitely fits “the right guy” mold Jack Z was talking about spending on. Do it, Jack. At least be active.
JacobyWanKenobi
Can’t wait to see the AAV of his future deal.
Mike LaRose
Finally!
Lefty_Orioles_Fan
Well, it is my understanding that the Yankees want to stay below the 189 million dollar threshold. I suppose that little idea will be thrown out the window?
The Dodgers have assembled one of the greatest bullpens ever, if everyone behaves and gets along and stays healthy. So why would the Dodgers need him? So maybe there’s hope for the Cubs. The Mariners would be interesting. I don’t know where Tanaka is going to go, but it was nice of the Powers that Be at Rakuten to let Tanaka be posted.
ultimate913
The “new” plan is to either be under 189 or go way over. No point in going over if they end up at like 192.
drwheelock
I’m no Yankee Fan but you are exactly right. They are going to get so HARD with the Luxury Tax as it is, but the more payroll the higher the Tax goes. Even if they go all out and jump payroll back to $220M, isn’t that like $110M Extra they have to pay to MLB in Luxury Tax? OUCH
Michael Chin
You don’t even know how MLB payroll work. Where did you get $110M from? The luxury tax is assessed at a varying percentage on teams over the cap which would be 189 million this year. Therefore if the Yankees do go over this year, they would pay either 40 to 50% of the amount they went over the cap which is hardly 110M. Around 20M to 35M by rough estimates but the revenue they gain from fielding a championship team is 80M.
LazerTown
You pay on what you are over, not total. Is just like normal tax rates. When you jump from a 0% to a 5% tax bracket you don’t pay that on whole income, just amount in the next bracket.
If they get under the % resets to a lower level. That is why even though the Dodgers and the Yankees had roughly equal payroll, the Yankees paid way more.
ShaneRedsFan
So happy to hear this even though it’s unlikely he signs with my team. It’s going to be very exciting watching him take the mound for the first time next season!
JJ 3
Welcome to NY Tanaka.
Brandon Duenas
Dbacks please!!! PLEASE GOD.
jljr222
Finally, this has been the biggest build up for no apparent reason. Now all that’s left is for the A-Rod verdict to come out and we can all stop with the unnecessary drama. But, YAY! BIDDING WARS!
I’m gonna say he gets 7 years at about $140MM because I was to see it get crazy.
drwheelock
That would be pretty crazy. I don’t see it getting that high, but how desperate the Cubs are they just might make that type of offer. Doesn’t mean Tanaka will go to the highest bidder either.
BillB325
I’ll say he gets 8yrs at 145MM with a AAV of 17 million and a 9 million signing bonus. Specific.
LazerTown
I’d take that.
JacobyWanKenobi
There’s almost no reason not to pay the 20 mil and get in for any team. Remember, the player gets to choose his location this time, so he may not take the largest contract.
drwheelock
Exactly!
Brandon Duenas
KT… I just finished Christmas shopping and went over my budget to make my family happy. Now do the same with yours and make Diamondback fans happy 🙂
Duane Wimbley
Yankees will offer 7 yrs 180-200mil
JacobyWanKenobi
No.
Rook
If my Dbacks don’t get him, I do indeed hope it’s because a GM does something that crazy.
Tanaka is not getting $30 million a year before throwing a pitch in the big leagues.
Joey Doughnuts
Lol, no. He may get around 7 yr/$120 if I had to guess.
LazerTown
Could see 7 years, but doubt at that value. Darvish cost $108M I doubt that Tanaka completely blows that out of the water, he is pretty similar level.
justinept
It will absolutely cost more for a team to reel in Darvish than it did for the Rangers to get Darvish. The bidding war aspect of this all but assures that; however, it’s completely absurd to think Tanaka will get 7 years $180 million. If the Yankees want to make him the highest paid pitcher in baseball history. then so be it, but I can think of a lot better ways to spend $25.7 million per year.
LazerTown
Right. Every team had the chance at Darvish too, they had to win the posting, but I’m sure many of them had a general idea of what he was worth and how much to bid. They probably knew the cost would be around $100M most likely, salaries have gone up since then, and fa might up the amount a bit more, but I really don’t see Tanaka getting 70% more total cost compared to Darvish.
Melvin McMurf
i think only the angels do that
drwheelock
I don’t
drwheelock
Thats like Arod Money on a AAV. Kind of funny you mention those figures. lol
Yankee Pinstripes
HECK NO!!!!!!!!!!
5-7 years and the AAV is probably $15-19M
Jose Villasano
It’s about time it’s going to be between the Dodgers or Cubs you’ll see
YankeeFan™
1. CC Sabathia
2. Masahiro Tanaka
3. Hiroki Kuroda
4. Ivan Nova
5. Michael Pineda
Brandon Duenas
1. Tanaka
2. Corbin
3. Bradley
4. Miley
5. McCarthy/Cahill/Delgado
Brandon Duenas
Why the thumbs down? I’m just dreaming.
jjs91
Some people will downvote anyone who says that he won’t sign with their team.
livestrong77nyyankz
Make him the ace of a rotation in a league he has never pitched in right off the bat? Yikes.
Brandon Duenas
Worked for Darvish.
livestrong77nyyankz
He is not Darvish
Brandon Duenas
Really? Thanks for clarifying. I thought he was for a second.
livestrong77nyyankz
No problem, It was evident that you clearly had thought the two were equals for whatever reason.
dzuch
DBACKS make the most since. The Cubs are not contending and the Yankees are tapped out as the Angels. The dodgers don’t need him… This is the only piece of the puzzle missing from the Dbacks then they could make a couple small moves like flipping Cahil for more farmers. ..
livestrong77nyyankz
ok you’re right
LazerTown
He makes the most sense to a small budget team?
Yankees are far from tapped out, they just want to be smarter about it.
dzuch
DBACKS make the most since. The Cubs are not contending and the Yankees are tapped out as the Angels. The dodgers don’t need him… This is the only piece of the puzzle missing from the Dbacks then they could make a couple small moves like flipping Cahil for more farmers. ..
LazerTown
3.90 era in first season is solid, but not ace like.
Kyle B.
Darvish started game 3 of the 2012 season. He was not the #1.
Quilcene 2
Feliz Hernandez/ Hiroshima Iwakuma/ Masahiro Tanaka/TaijuanWalker/ James Paxton-
Gimme some lovin for dat—-
wafootballinsider
Don’t you mean Nagasaki Iwakuma?
drwheelock
Seattle could land BOTH Tanaka and trade for Lee:
Felix
Lee
Iwakuma
Tanaka
Walker AND Paxton (Due to them both being on limited PCs)
Gimme some lovin for dat—–
LazerTown
Because they really have the money to add 3 $20M players in one winter, after having a payroll of $84M last year?
JacobyWanKenobi
If memory serves, Lee did not like Seattle.
JacobyWanKenobi
Happy Hernandez!
meinhardt1992
Shark
Tanka
Wood
Jackson
Arrieta or Rusin
InvalidUserID 2
Pretty good rotation IMO. I’d hope for another veteran to take the #5 spot and NOT depend on Pineda or even better one to take Nova’s #4 position and push Nova to #5. He was good but he’s been inconsistent.
YankeeFan™
Agree
drwheelock
No way I would rely on Pineda. He wasn’t even ranked in the top 100 prospects in Seattle, and came out of nowhere, put up incredible #s in the 1st half since he could throw 99mph.
Pineda only has 2 pitches. His ERA will continue to be in the 4-5 range. Bet me on that one!
jjs91
“He wasn’t even ranked in the top 100 prospects in Seattle” No? he wasn’t ranked 16th in 2010? And he wasn’t a part of the M’s top 10 list every year he was eligible?
JacobyWanKenobi
On the contrary, I think the #5 spot SHOULD be used for Pineda/House options. They need to give younger guys a chance, or they’ll never know what they can do.
JJ 3
Dont worry about the haters. Tanaka is a Yankee.
Robert Muldhoon
Pineda will never throw another ML pitch
jjs91
Because you say so?
GetTheRunnerOver
Im sure people thought the same about Chris Carpenter at some point
JJ 3
That not even funny.
Michael Chin
As recently as fall 2013, Pineda was pitching in the minor leagues and had a good era with a fastball at 92mph. Any sane person would know that he is progressing towards the major leagues and will be in time to showcase his stuff for #5 starter in spring training.
Edgar4evar
And the Yankees will still win that trade…
LazerTown
Trade is far from decided, but still think Yankees could be in good shape. Montero and Noesi have been terrible. Campos and Pineda haven’t done anything in the majors, but they look to have potential.
GetTheRunnerOver
Pineda is still questionable, at this moment Phelps is 5
livestrong77nyyankz
Give me Nuno
GetTheRunnerOver
Not yet
GetTheRunnerOver
Not yet
LazerTown
He is 26. Nuno will never blow you away, but he could still have a solid career.
GetTheRunnerOver
Not yet
JacobyWanKenobi
Pineda has by far the most upside though. We know what Phelps is pretty much, and Nuno seems about the same. Gotta give Pineda a chance to prove or disprove himself.
Lionel Bossman Craft
I’d like to see some more of Warren.
Dale Pearl
with that starting 5 the Yankees would still be lucky to walk away with an 80 win season.
MB923
Lol with the improved offense (except the loss of Cano) that prob makes them a 90-95 win team once again
drwheelock
Funny how Pineda and his 2 Pitches are automatically entered into your rotation.
ravens
could all the Dodger signings today be to show Tanaka how commited they are to winning?
Brandon Duenas
I doubt he cares about that honestly. Location and contract structure will matter most to him. He’s not a veteran pitcher desperate to win a WS or something.
bill leff
Yeah, finalizing the Uribe deal will really excite Tanaka.
Guest 3876
Well, that escalated quickly.
Joey Doughnuts
No, no it didn’t.
rossington
Cubs will sign him no doubt in my mind.
Guest 3875
-_______-
Guest 3875
-_______-
northsfbay
Tanaka said that he wants to play for the Yankees or Dodgers. My guess is that the Yankees will out bid everyone else.
trenigro
And where is that “quote” from?
EarlyMorningBoxscore
The Onion Sports Network.
EarlyMorningBoxscore
The Onion Sports Network.
JJ 3
We know the yankees can out bid any team but I dont remember when tanaka said “he wants to play for the Yankees or Dodgers”
frogbogg
Out bid anyone not named the Mariners.
JJ 3
Really -____-
Yankee Pinstripes
He just said it by hiring Casey Close as his agent.
Quilcene 2
Tanaka never said he wanted to play for the Yankess= he said he wanted to play on the West Coast- he said he wanted to play the Yankees….
Robert Muldhoon
Tanaka has said he wants to play on the west coast anywhere not named Oakland
Jordan 14
It’s fine. We don’t need him anyway for our 3rd consecutive division title.
Brandon Duenas
Corbin is better than CC anyways at this point of their careers. He would be in the same situation heading over to NY.
livestrong77nyyankz
I guess your Christmas present to everyone is stating irrational things. Thank you and Merry Christmas.
jjs91
So nice of you to give him a present. There’s nothing wrong with calling the best pitching prospect in the game your number one starter.
GetTheRunnerOver
No he isnt, CC is still the most durable innings eater in the game. He will be back in form next year
Brandon Duenas
I respect NY, and CC… he’s had a great career but I don’t think he’ll be the same again. Hope he proves me wrong.
Brandon Duenas
I respect NY, and CC… he’s had a great career but I don’t think he’ll be the same again. Hope he proves me wrong.
GetTheRunnerOver
Why dont you think so? his problem was he still thought he could throw 96 mph. Im sure hes realized that now, and has been working out those little kinks
livestrong77nyyankz
His problem was arm slot and losing the rest of his balance because of his weight loss.
livestrong77nyyankz
His problem was arm slot and losing the rest of his balance because of his weight loss.
JacobyWanKenobi
A large part of his problem was that his arm slot dropped too much, and his breaking pitches turned into meat balls.
GetTheRunnerOver
Why dont you think so? his problem was he still thought he could throw 96 mph. Im sure hes realized that now, and has been working out those little kinks
LazerTown
He doesn’t have to be the same to be useful.
Brandon Duenas
I respect NY, and CC… he’s had a great career but I don’t think he’ll be the same again. Hope he proves me wrong.
drwheelock
Hope so for NY’s sake cause it will be very ugly for them if he isn’t
livestrong77nyyankz
Haha yeah its been building up for such a long time…
jjs91
Just read his twitter feed. Okay fine it’s made up, just like anything kuroda has said or wanted to do in the past few years.
GetTheRunnerOver
Tanaka to the bronx would be a sweet Christmas gift
Brandon Mason
I hope the Angels sign him!!
Melvin McMurf
the angels havent issued that totally stupiid contract so far, now is their chance
TheoHoyer
Don’t get ahead of yourself, Jason.
Mr.Miggles
Let him get ahead of himself! It’s Christmas!!!
GetTheRunnerOver
Its never Christmas for the Cubs though
TheoHoyer
We can always hope Christmas will come next year.
TheoHoyer
We can always hope Christmas will come next year.
Jason Johnson 2
Nor you buddy lol. Unless he just doesn’t care about money I’m sure the Cubs will go hard for him. Down vote away “-)
Pedro Martin
NYY vs LAD bidding war… i dont see chicago/arizona being in the run besides saying they are..
bill leff
Cubs will get him. They’ll get insanely dumb to make this deal. Just watch. It’ll top 180m.
Pedro Martin
i hope no team pays more than 120… it would be ridiculous
justinept
$120 sounds about right, but you never know when a bidding war ensues. Wait, cross that, you know at least one thing – this bidding war won’t come close to $180 million.
Pedro Martin
i hope no team pays more than 120… it would be ridiculous
Brandon Duenas
Just got off the phone with Tanaka and he said he’s coming to Arizona. It’s official. I don’t speak Japanese but I’m pretty sure that’s what he was trying to say.
jjs91
Based of this recent tweet it appears you are right. “いえいえ”
Chris Keith
If the Blue Jays’ AAA Manager, Tanaka’s old manager, hadn’t just quit, I might have given the Jays a better Chance, that said, I am with the person who said not the Yankees or Dodgers, but will also throw in Red Sox!
Bryan Ma.
lol
bestlakersfan
Come home to the Dodgers, baby!
Kingmojo101
Angels could give him 7-126m, lots of Japanese fans in Anaheim
Weaver
Wilson
Tanaka
Santiago
Richards
Pedro Martin
Kershaw
Greinke
Tanaka
Ryu
Haren..
way better
Robert Muldhoon
Felix
Iwakuma
Tanaka
Walker
Paxton
Even better.
Pedro Martin
i like it but no.. lol
Pedro Martin
i like it but no.. lol
GetTheRunnerOver
CC
Tanaka
Kuroda
Nova
Phelps/Pineda
Even better
Robert Muldhoon
CC bwaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa — be lucky to get 10 wins out of him, Kuroda mmm maybe 12 wins, Nova hahahahaha Pineda won’t pitch in MLB again.
jjs91
I would argue but generally when people use wins as important stats it’s not really worth it.
Robert Muldhoon
Agreed, wins are a team stat. But just a matter of looking at the stankees lineup, they are not going to end up higher than 3 in the AL East.
livestrong77nyyankz
Nobody will argue with you because of your lack of maturity.
Robert Muldhoon
now that was a real adult response
livestrong77nyyankz
Twas indeed
jjs91
So the M’s have a better offense than the yankees? interesting….
Robert Muldhoon
Agreed, wins are a team stat. But just a matter of looking at the stankees lineup, they are not going to end up higher than 3 in the AL East.
Robert Muldhoon
Agreed, wins are a team stat. But just a matter of looking at the stankees lineup, they are not going to end up higher than 3 in the AL East.
Since_77
This post shows that this site’s commenting policy is a waste of time.
Robert Muldhoon
CC bwaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa — be lucky to get 10 wins out of him, Kuroda mmm maybe 12 wins, Nova hahahahaha Pineda won’t pitch in MLB again.
radicalhenri
Astros:
Tanaka
?
?
?
?
Even better
GetTheRunnerOver
CC
Tanaka
Kuroda
Nova
Phelps/Pineda
Even better
GetTheRunnerOver
CC
Tanaka
Kuroda
Nova
Phelps/Pineda
Even better
Alex L.
Tigers shock everyone like they did when they signed fielder
1. Scherzer
2. Verlander
3. Sanchez
4. Tanaka
5. Porcello
Even better.
BillB325
Okay that one wins. To bad they traded Fister though. Oh wait,
1. Strasburg
2.Zimmerman
3.Gonzalez
4.Tanaka
5. Fister
Not better, but sounds good
Robert Muldhoon
Felix
Iwakuma
Tanaka
Walker
Paxton
Even better.
Bromacho
Such insecurity. Where in his post was he saying Angels would have a better rotation than the Dodgers?
Pedro Martin
he doesn’t and that not what i am replying to.. simply cross town rivalry stuff… i want my team to improve more than theirs 😛
Bromacho
All is well friend.
livestrong77nyyankz
I feel like you’re just lashing out for no reason.
Bromacho
That’s the wrong kind of feel to have.
Edgar4evar
Tanaka
Wacha
Chewbacca
Binaca
Boom-Chakalaka
EarlyMorningBoxscore
Really wish the Red Sox had room in their rotation. Santa Cherington, please make room?
Andrew m
Come on Rube…
KJ4realz
Yes please
KJ4realz
Yes please
KJ4realz
Yes please
raltongo 2
yes! if the Yankees are willing to crash through the luxury tax threshold, then the Phillies should be too! Argh…too many long-term contracts on a declining team, though, so I doubt Ruben & Montgomery pull the trigger…..
It could, however, be their one BIG move to re-invigorate the fan base
GetTheRunnerOver
CC
Tanaka
Kuroda
Nova
Phelps/Pineda
That is good, I hope i wake up tomorrow seeing Tanaka to the Yankees is a done deal..hell maybe even tonight.
NJgriffNC
I think Mariners
thefallensoldier
I predict he will sign with a baseball team.
Brandon Duenas
pssh ya right
Pedro Martin
im pretty sure LA Galaxy was about to win this bidding war
TheoHoyer
Well, the Cowboys need a QB now that Romo is out for the season….
gammaraze
Maybe they can try to borrow Russell Wilson from the Rangers…
TheoHoyer
Well, the Cowboys need a QB now that Romo is out for the season….
Ferrariman
So you’re saying not the cubs?
thefallensoldier
I see what you did.
bdiddy7
That is a bold prediction, my friend.
treday
Curious to see how interested the Dodgers are. We’ve heard varying reports, I’m glad he’s been posted so instead of seeing reports I can just see what they do. Go time for everyone now.
Brandon Duenas
Just got off the phone with his agent. Confirmed that Tanaka is retiring.
TheoHoyer
Let’s be honest, he’s going to get Cole Hamels/Matt Cain/Zach Grienke money.
How many teams out there are willing to give out a 6yr/120 or 7yr/140 contract + 20 Million posting fee.
Ferrariman
probably quite a few. Yankees, Dodgers, Cubs, maybe Texas, Tigers are known for their questionable decisions..
Ferrariman
probably quite a few. Yankees, Dodgers, Cubs, maybe Texas, Tigers are known for their questionable decisions..
Ferrariman
probably quite a few. Yankees, Dodgers, Cubs, maybe Texas, Tigers are known for their questionable decisions..
FS54 2
He should go to Nationals.
Tyler Evans
oh dear god. their rotation would be stacked
FS54 2
that’s the goal.
FS54 2
that’s the goal.
Tyler Evans
oh dear god. their rotation would be stacked
FS54 2
He should go to Nationals.
FS54 2
He should go to Nationals.
John Donovan
Well the Twins have signed every other starting pitcher this year. I wonder how many jaws would drop if he ended up there. I’m not even a Twins fan and I would love to see that happen just so everyone can be wrong together.
Marky Mark
That would finally give them a number 1 instead of the bunch of 4 and 5’s they signed
John Donovan
Well the Twins have signed every other starting pitcher this year. I wonder how many jaws would drop if he ended up there. I’m not even a Twins fan and I would love to see that happen just so everyone can be wrong together.
John Donovan
Well the Twins have signed every other starting pitcher this year. I wonder how many jaws would drop if he ended up there. I’m not even a Twins fan and I would love to see that happen just so everyone can be wrong together.
Jaysmooth2121
Looks like the dodgers are going to go all in for him ive heard
GetTheRunnerOver
So something like the Sabathia deal?
GetTheRunnerOver
So something like the Sabathia deal?
GetTheRunnerOver
So something like the Sabathia deal?
Jaysmooth2121
Looks like the dodgers are going to go all in for him ive heard
Robert Muldhoon
There are only a few teams with the money available to sign him. Dodgers, Stankees, M’s and Angels.
Kyle B.
Rangers and Diamondbacks are in there too.
Matt He.
Rangers already got Fielder and Choo on their payroll, I’d put their chances to get Tanaka at slim to none.
Robert Muldhoon
There are only a few teams with the money available to sign him. Dodgers, Stankees, M’s and Angels.
KnowledgeDivine
have this guy throw even one pitch against MLB talent?
drwheelock
Hey that’s an idea…lets schedule a try out with Tanaka pitching to the 10 best batters in both leagues:
1. Trout
2. Stanton
3. Cano
4. Davis
5. etc etc etc
AND at Safeco Field (pitchers park) for one day…
and then the next try out bing in Arlington (a hitters park)
That will get things pretty exciting.
Oops I ment to say Arlington 1st…then the 2nd tryout in Safeco…so Seattle has the chance to corner him and not let him leave until he signs! ;0
LoneTXRanger
I really really like that idea. Honestly as a GM I would want that. This guy may not even pan out. I would want to see what he has.
KnowledgeDivine
have this guy throw even one pitch against MLB talent?
Chris Metcalf
Very shocked by this. As a fan of baseball I’m obviously thrilled to see what Tanaka can do in the states, but wouldn’t have blamed Rakuten for a second for not posting him. Merry Christmas Masahiro!!!
erm016
$5 says mediocre just like all the others.
Ferrariman
Just like Darvish?
Robert Muldhoon
Or Iwakuma
Joey Doughnuts
Or Hideo Nomo?
Ferrariman
Or Matsui. Or Ichiro. Or Koji Uehera.
livestrong77nyyankz
Or Kuroda..
Joey Doughnuts
Or Hideo Nomo?
Robert Muldhoon
Or Iwakuma
erm016
Na, more like Dice K. Or Kenshin Kawakami.
erm016
Na, more like Dice K. Or Kenshin Kawakami.
Kingslayer
More like Tsuyoshi Shinjo, the golden boy of Japan who came and ruined his immaculate career in the states. Bad luck signing with the Mets.
Edit: He is still a baller in Japan, didn’t hurt his credibility so much.
王威評
Shinjo the golden boy? You don’t know anything about Japanese baseball.
During last 20 years, only a few could dominate like Tanaka.
Ichiro, Matsui, Dice-K, Darvish.
And they all did well in MLB. (Dice-K prior to injury)
Only those 4 were treated as “the very best” player during their time.
Ferrariman
Just like Darvish?
Chris Metcalf
Very shocked by this. As a fan of baseball I’m obviously thrilled to see what Tanaka can do in the states, but wouldn’t have blamed Rakuten for a second for not posting him. Merry Christmas Masahiro!!!
northsfbay
The article says Tanaka’s contract will go over 100 mil. That is a lot of money for an unproven player and pitchers break.
drwheelock
Exactly! I think he tops out at $120m.
northsfbay
The article says Tanaka’s contract will go over 100 mil. That is a lot of money for an unproven player and pitchers break.
Chris March
Come on Rick Hahn, one more international splash this off season.
Sale, Tanaka, Quintana, Johnson & Rienzo
I left Danks off because I think he & Beckham both will get traded by spring training. That would clear more money to sign him. Hopefully Danks/Beckham go to Toronto in a deal for Sanchez. Picture the rotation with him in it (minus Rienzo or Johnson of course, who could be moved for an upgrade somewhere else). They all would be around 25 yrs old each. Nice young rotation to build around.
Joey Doughnuts
It would be amazing, but highly unlikely.
Joey Doughnuts
It would be amazing, but highly unlikely.
Joey Doughnuts
It would be amazing, but highly unlikely.
jwsox
I was thinking the same. The fact that a bid cannot be more than 20. Works in favor of a mid market(I know they are in Chicago but the cubs rule this town) like the sox. Plus with Adam Dunn coming off the books next season. And assuming a trade of danks, even eating half his contract, plus all the money saved from the rios and peavy deals. They could easily afford him
Chris March
Come on Rick Hahn, one more international splash this off season.
Sale, Tanaka, Quintana, Johnson & Rienzo
I left Danks off because I think he & Beckham both will get traded by spring training. That would clear more money to sign him. Hopefully Danks/Beckham go to Toronto in a deal for Sanchez. Picture the rotation with him in it (minus Rienzo or Johnson of course, who could be moved for an upgrade somewhere else). They all would be around 25 yrs old each. Nice young rotation to build around.
Chris March
Come on Rick Hahn, one more international splash this off season.
Sale, Tanaka, Quintana, Johnson & Rienzo
I left Danks off because I think he & Beckham both will get traded by spring training. That would clear more money to sign him. Hopefully Danks/Beckham go to Toronto in a deal for Sanchez. Picture the rotation with him in it (minus Rienzo or Johnson of course, who could be moved for an upgrade somewhere else). They all would be around 25 yrs old each. Nice young rotation to build around.
YankeeFan™
now theres a report tanaka might not be posted -_________-
YankeeFan™
now theres a report tanaka might not be posted -_________-
jljr222
Well apparently there are reports that he will not be posted by some Japanese news posts. Check out Dylan Hernandez and his tweets. Once again…conflicting reports. I feel like we should wait until they officially announce something, because this is beyond ridiculous.
jljr222
Well apparently there are reports that he will not be posted by some Japanese news posts. Check out Dylan Hernandez and his tweets. Once again…conflicting reports. I feel like we should wait until they officially announce something, because this is beyond ridiculous.
Jaysmooth2121
Looks like they have said they’re not going to post tanaka by sources of dylan hernandez twitter page
Jaysmooth2121
Looks like they have said they’re not going to post tanaka by sources of dylan hernandez twitter page
DerekJeterDan
It’s a Merry Christmas indeed!
Now Yankees, make my avatar come true!
GetTheRunnerOver
If it does happen, mind if i use your avatar?
DerekJeterDan
Go for it!
GetTheRunnerOver
If it does happen, mind if i use your avatar?
DerekJeterDan
It’s a Merry Christmas indeed!
Now Yankees, make my avatar come true!
Neekohlai
Please Jerry/Arte break the bank on this guy. Think of the Tanaka v. Darvish/Tanaka v. Iwakuma matchup revenue alone. The AL West would be a gold mine for the Japanese market.
Neekohlai
Please Jerry/Arte break the bank on this guy. Think of the Tanaka v. Darvish/Tanaka v. Iwakuma matchup revenue alone. The AL West would be a gold mine for the Japanese market.
Dale Pearl
only large market teams need apply. small market… just remember you exist only to be a minor league stop for the big 5
teufelshunde4
Tell that to STL. They are doing s good job beating the big 5 consistently.
Dale Pearl
only large market teams need apply. small market… just remember you exist only to be a minor league stop for the big 5
Dale Pearl
only large market teams need apply. small market… just remember you exist only to be a minor league stop for the big 5
GetTheRunnerOver
I wonder if Cashman sent Ichiro and Kuroda to do some sweet talking to Tanaka
Joey Doughnuts
I’m sure Tanaka only wants to speak to the Yankees friend Benjamin.
Joey Doughnuts
I’m sure Tanaka only wants to speak to the Yankees friend Benjamin.
Since_77
That might be the only reason Ichiro is still on the team.
He performed below ML level last year.
GetTheRunnerOver
I wonder if Cashman sent Ichiro and Kuroda to do some sweet talking to Tanaka
Dbacksfan44
Make it happen KT
Joey Doughnuts
Knowing Kevin Towers, he will give the Eagles $20M and then throw in Archie Bradley for no reason.
Joey Doughnuts
Knowing Kevin Towers, he will give the Eagles $20M and then throw in Archie Bradley for no reason.
Joey Doughnuts
Knowing Kevin Towers, he will give the Eagles $20M and then throw in Archie Bradley for no reason.
Dbacksfan44
Make it happen KT
Dbacksfan44
Make it happen KT
Bromacho
Fish is quite popular in Japan. Last I checked Angels had the best kind…
Bromacho
Fish is quite popular in Japan. Last I checked Angels had the best kind…
start_wearing_purple
‘Bout time.
start_wearing_purple
‘Bout time.
Robert Muldhoon
I am pretty sure Tanaka will not want to play for the NYY’s due to all the old old guys on the team.
Bromacho
But then he could call Sabathia his sensei
gammaraze
I highly doubt Sabathia would teach Tanaka much… much more likely that he would be called Sabathia-senpai.
Rally Weimaraner
Respect your elders!
Robert Muldhoon
I am pretty sure Tanaka will not want to play for the NYY’s due to all the old old guys on the team.
coreif
I wonder why Rakuten changed their minds.
Sky14
I’m guessing that he wanted to come state side. They made him their best offer but it’s not even close to what he will make in the US. It makes sense why he would not forgo the opportunity at $100 million, potentially. They always said they will let him go if he cannot be convinced to stay.
Robert Muldhoon
If Tanaka goes to either NYY or dodgers the salary will put them over the limit and cost them an additional 14 or so million dollars. So the true cost will be like 35 million for either team to sign him.
MadmanTX 2
Guaranteed the Rangers will join the 20 mil bidders club. I think from there, it only partly becomes about the money. Tanaka will look at the club and its competitiveness and the Rangers should make his short list. Unless somebody grossly overpays Tanaka, the Rangers have a pretty good shot.
Seamaholic
They’d have to exceed their stated budget by a long distance.
This is a pointless conversation … I’m not a Yankees fan (don’t give a hoot about the AL in fact) but it’s so obvious he’s going there. Only chance of it not happening is if the dodgers go to $25m/yr or something. Everyone else is just buying a lottery ticket and hoping.
Kyle B.
I don’t think it’s as obvious as people think it is. I think the M’s, Rangers, and the Dodgers all have very good chances as well.
Will Yankees and Dodgers bid the most? Probably. That doesn’t mean he’s going there.
Phil Merkel
Yes, and those who say the Rangers have topped out don’t realize how deep the pockets are and that if they can sign him, then Ogando-Moreland-whoever will be gone to free up some $$$ to offset the signing. Those trade pieces could then bring the Rangers the DH they need so badly.l
Kyle B.
He can take, what will surely be, the NYY’s obscene paycheck, but hopefully there’s more to Tanaka’s decision-making than that. I don’t think the Yankees will outbid everyone as much as the fans on here think.
There are many other destinations that he will have to choose from: Seattle, LAA, and Texas I feel will all put in highly competitive offers. Obviously I’m hoping the Rangers get him, but it has to make sense. You can’t give this guy $20MM annually before he proves himself. If it gets to that point there’s no problem bowing out.
bud_chud
he and Darvish are very good friends hopefully he will help bring him to Texas
Robert Muldhoon
Iwakuma and Tanaka were good friends in Japan. 🙂
TAKERDBACKS
Come on dbacks suprise me just once.if not garza.please sick of seeing l.a and n.y buy the world
Phil Merkel
Let them buy the world…they haven’t won the big one after doing so
Ace Simmons
The Yankees and Red Sox have.
Phil Merkel
Tell me how many times in the last 10 years the Yankees have won??? The original comment referred to L.A. and N.Y., not Boston.
HaloHero
Angels will go all in and do what it takes to get him. They need him the most and have the assets to get the job done.
Robert Muldhoon
M’s have more available money than the anaheims
HaloHero
I’m pretty sure they’d exceed the luxury tax thresh hold next year to land him.
Robert Muldhoon
The angels would, so add another 15 million to the budget
LightUptheHalo
So when does the actual bidding start?
Robert Muldhoon
One day after the posting for 30 days only
Rally Weimaraner
I doubt LAA will land Tanaka but it should help make Garza more affordable.
GetTheRunnerOver
What kinda deal does Garza get? like the Hughes one you think?
JSapp11
No lol
Rally Weimaraner
Garza will get more than Hughes. I’m think this will bring him down to 4/60 instead of 5/75
PhillyYank
Yankees fans are going to find a present under the tree from Santa Cashman.
Robert Muldhoon
wont happen – he will cost 20 per at the minimum. Add in the 15 million dollar luxury tax and the stankees will be out of the bidding.
northsfbay
Never count the Yankees out.
Bromacho
Is it A-Rod
livestrong77nyyankz
I actually do predict the Cubs will get him, I hope I’m wrong and he winds up with the Yankees but that is just my gut feeling.
GetTheRunnerOver
Me too man.
Jim01702
I can’t see the cubs spending $120+ million on him.
southpaw777
Nobody sees the red Sox as a possible destination? Teams have inquired about Lackey, Doubront and Peavy. Im sure they could move someone to make room. Besides, if they did go over the LT its only 17.5% and they have a lot of $$ coming off the books after 2014, so it would reset. Just a thought…
livestrong77nyyankz
No I don’t see it sorry. The Red Sox will likely get higher offers on trades closer to spring training or at the very least once Tanaka is off the market.
YankeeFan™
According to sources a official announcement of Tanaka Posting At 11am Japan time
That Guy
Nationals?
Art Vandelet
Come on, KIA Tigers! Time to make your move!
northsfbay
Yankees, Angels, Cubs, D’Backs names have been tied to Tanaka.
Art Vandelet
Breaking: Golden Eagles to Post Kevin Youkilis
Rook
What would be really funny is if the Yankees put a max bid in on him.
Brett Czerwinski
Yankees had a 7 yr 140 mil offer for choo even after the Jacoby deal..they are going to go all out for tanaka
northsfbay
I got raked through the coals earlier that I thought the Yankees will go all out for Tanaka. It is not what I want to happen, it is what I think will happen.
start_wearing_purple
Them, and I suspect, the Mariners. If they spent everything big on just Cano then they’re still staring back in the standings.
Harrisonc27
Thats a very good point
rouscher
But they offered that before beltran, who knows how much they’re willing to spend now
teufelshunde4
I would think the M’s go big for Tanaka. Keep young studs and spend the rest on Tanaka.
northsfbay
The M’s have starting pitching prospects that are close to the majors. I would think they would spend their money on offense.
teufelshunde4
Who is left to spend those dollars on? All the talk of M’s goo g after Price. Tanaka would make more sense then depleting farm system for a rental player in Price.
Sky14
I could see the M’s being serious players for Tanaka. They would have a rotation that would keep them competitive without needing much offense.
王威評
Ms have a Japanese owner group, they “always” had an extra budget for Japanese players.
Blue387
Paging Sandy Alderson to the white courtesy phone.
Runtime
In other news:
AA, Kawasaki, and Tomo Ohka have been spotted in Japan.
TO647
It would be amazing if having Ohka and Kawasaki on the Jays actually influenced Tanaka’s decision. It likely won’t though.
Runtime
Kawasaki absolutely won’t…
Ohka might… not much though.
Robert Muldhoon
Astropolis was banned from the M’s site, and now here she is again.
Rook
Hopefully the bidding process is pretty quick. I can’t really see any reason for that to take all that long. Most teams already know if they are putting up the $20 million or not.
I wana see what the contract offers look like right out of the gate.
Robert Muldhoon
Offers cannot be made until the day after he is posted. Then all teams have 30 days only to negotiate.
Robert Muldhoon
However I believe the new agreement allows the teams with the top 3 offers to negotiate.
Rook
From what I read, any team that puts up the $20 million will be allowed to talk contract with Tanaka. It won’t be limited to a certain number of teams.
Rook
I thought there would be a couple days to get bids in, then the teams that fork over the $20 million could start negotiating.
Damon Bowman
The real question that needs to be answered is how long of a deal is Tanaka looking for. Does he want a 6- or 7-year deal where he all but guarantees only a deep-pocketed team can afford him or does he want to be crafty about it? If he turns out to be as good as expected, Tanaka might be better off taking a 3- or 4-year deal to get to 27 or 28 years old and then hit the market again before turning 30. He could cash in twice instead of signing a deal that would let him return to free agency after passing what would probably be his best seasons.
Phil Merkel
Finally, someone with some brains. If Tanaka were smart, he would take a 3-5 year contract then become a FA…the shorter the contract length, the better his odds of making bucks later. In that short time he will be able to prove his worth very quickly…which I think he will.
Mikel Grady
People will quickly realize the cubs have deeper pockets than anyone and when they rebuild they will never look back as theo collects worlds series trophies .
teufelshunde4
Hahaha. Cubs have a really nice system except they are missing pitching at every level from rookie ball to the majors. Unless they can come up with butt load of pitching and fast, Theo will have to trade some of his prized hitting prospects for pitching. Never good to trade everday players for pitching since pitching breaks so easily. Cubs are on a good track. They have a ways to go to be truly competitive.
StevePegues
You’re awfully close to a mad scientist “Fools! They’ll live to regret this!” style rant here.
714_ElHombre_714
hope angels sign him
1.jered weaver
2.tanaka
3.C.J wilson
4.Garret richards
5.Tyler skaggs