Japanese right-hander Masato Yoshii has been placed on waivers for unconditional release by the Montreal Expos, the National League club said Tuesday.
The 37-year-old Yoshii went 4-9 with a 4.11 ERA in 31 games, including 20 starts, this past season after joining Montreal on a free-agent deal in March 2001.
He has a career record of 32-47 in the majors with a 4.62 ERA over five years with the New York Mets, Colorado Rockies and Expos.
According to his agent, Don Nomura, Yoshii was notified of the decision Monday and hopes to play for another major league team next season.
"Just a few weeks ago Montreal had said they wanted to re-sign him. It's very disappointing and confusing," Nomura said.
Yoshii had been complaining of pain in his left shoulder since spring training and underwent surgery in September.