The Yokohama BayStars said Wednesday former Los Angeles Dodgers left-hander Brent Leach, who has been on the restricted list since April 1, will return to Japan on Friday.
Leach went back to the United States shortly after the March 11 earthquake and tsunami in northeastern Japan because his family was concerned about his safety amid the nuclear power plant crisis in Fukushima Prefecture.
The 28-year-old is scheduled to join the BayStars farm team Saturday after obtaining permission from baseball commissioner Ryozo Kato to play in Japan.
A player on the restricted list is not allowed to play for any club.
Leach had a 2-0 record with a 5.75 ERA in 38 appearances, all in relief, for the Dodgers in 2009 before spending all of the 2010 season in the minor leagues.
Earlier this year, Yokohama was expecting Leach to vie for a rotation spot.