Tuffy Rhodes didn't have to think twice to choose job security over dollar bills, but when he asked for what he believed was a simple wish and was denied it, he knew it was time to move on.
He knows Osaka fans think he chose a better salary over devotion to the Kintetsu Buffaloes. The three-time Pacific League home run king said all he wanted was a contract extension for another two seasons -- perhaps his final two -- but the team's answer was no.
The reason?
The Buffaloes have never given a foreign player a multiyear deal. And Rhodes, despite being able to qualify for free agency this year after serving a ninth season on the top team roster, was no exception.