Happy birthday to Masahiro Tanaka, who turns 27-years-old today!
Tanaka made it through 2015 relatively healthy, except for a stint on the DL with a strained right forearm. Otherwise, his elbow withstood a full season, which should give the Yankees and their fans hope that he can continue pitching without any limitations.
Tanaka finished the year at 12-7 with a 3.51 ERA in 24 games started. He went five innings in the AL Wild Card game and allowed two runs, but obviously the Yankees couldn’t scratch across a run to support him.
Shortly after the season, Tanaka underwent minor elbow surgery to remove bone spurs. He’s expected to be ready for spring training.
Tanaka will be entering the third year of a possible seven-year deal.
