Masahiro Tanaka made an effective if unremarkable spring debut on Saturday with the New York Yankees, who signed the Pacific League MVP and two-time Sawamura Award winner on a seven-year deal worth $155 million.
The 25-year-old Tanaka struck out three and allowed two singles in two scoreless innings out of the bullpen in a 4-0 preseason win over the Philadelphia Phillies at Steinbrenner Field. Tanaka, who entered to a roaring applause, had good command of his fastball, but frequently missed with his curve and slider in his 32-pitch outing.
"I think I did OK," Tanaka said. "I did a decent job of pitching to the opposing batters and didn't walk anyone so that was good. My form is not nearly there yet, so I have a lot to do.