Kevin Millar's decision not to play in Japan in the upcoming season is strictly personal and unrelated to Nippon Professional Baseball (NPB), according to an apology statement released Thursday by the Chunichi Dragons.
Millar, formerly of the Florida Marlins, issued the promised letter after refusing to come to Japan in time for spring training despite agreeing to a $6.2 million, two-year deal with Chunichi last month.
"I offer my sincere and heartfelt apologies to the Dragons, fans of the Dragons and anyone else who I may have disappointed by my decision not to play in Japan," wrote Millar, who joined the Boston Red Sox last week.