Junichi Tazawa, a right-handed pitcher from Japan, embarked on his Major League Baseball (MLB) journey with the Boston Red Sox. Born on June 6, 1986, in Kanagawa, Japan, Tazawa initially played for the Nippon Oil team in Japan's industrial leagues. His performance there caught the attention of MLB scouts, leading to his signing with the Red Sox in December 2008.
Tazawa bypassed the Nippon Professional Baseball (NPB) draft, a rare move for Japanese players at the time, opting instead to pursue a career directly in the United States. This decision was met with some controversy in Japan, but it paved the way for his MLB debut. He started his professional career in the minor leagues, quickly advancing through the ranks due to his impressive pitching skills.
In August 2009, Tazawa made his MLB debut with the Red Sox. His first appearance was against the New York Yankees, where he pitched in relief. Shortly after, he made his first start against the Detroit Tigers. During his rookie season, Tazawa showed promise, although he faced challenges typical for a newcomer adjusting to the major leagues. Unfortunately, his debut season was cut short due to an elbow injury, which led to Tommy John surgery in 2010.
After recovering from surgery, Tazawa returned to the Red Sox in 2011, gradually regaining his form. By 2012, he had become a reliable option in the bullpen, known for his control and ability to handle high-pressure situations. His performance that year helped solidify his role as a middle reliever and setup man.
The 2013 season marked a highlight in Tazawa's career. He played a crucial role in the Red Sox's bullpen during their World Series championship run. Tazawa was instrumental in the postseason, particularly in the American League Championship Series (ALCS) against the Detroit Tigers, where he consistently faced and retired the formidable Miguel Cabrera. His efforts contributed significantly to the Red Sox's success, culminating in their victory over the St. Louis Cardinals in the World Series.
Tazawa continued to be a mainstay in the Red Sox bullpen over the next few seasons. He was known for his effective fastball and splitter combination, which kept hitters off balance. Despite some ups and downs, he remained a dependable reliever through the 2016 season.
In 2017, Tazawa signed a two-year contract with the Miami Marlins. His tenure with the Marlins, however, was less consistent than his time in Boston. He struggled with performance issues and was eventually designated for assignment in 2018. Later that year, he briefly joined the Los Angeles Angels but was released after a short stint.
Throughout his MLB career, Tazawa was known for his work ethic and ability to adapt to different roles within the bullpen. His journey from Japan's industrial leagues to MLB was a testament to his skill and determination.
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