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In a stunning reversal, standout pitcher Masahiro Tanaka will have a chance to leave his Japanese team to move to Major League Baseball next season.  It was during a news conference on Wednesday that Rakuten disclosed Tanaka will be made available through the posting system. 

Ratuken didn't have to release Tanaka, as he has two years left on his deal with the Golden Eagles.  Tanaka compiled a 24-and-0 record with a 1.27 ERA in 28 games during the 2013 regular season and helped lead Rakuten to the Japan Series Title. 

The 25-year-old has record a 99-and-35 mark with a 2.30 ERA in 175 games since joining Rakuten in 2007.  He has 53 complete games, including 18 shutouts. 

Under the new rules set this offseason, the cap on the posting fee was set at 20-million-dollars.  The Yankees, Red Sox and Dodgers are reportedly among the clubs who are prepared to get into a high-bidding war for Tanaka.  (Metro Networks Inc.)

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