Query: Japanese players in Major League Baseball

Relevant passages:
Akinori Iwamura <=SEP=> Akinori Iwamura (岩村 明憲, Iwamura Akinori, born February 9, 1979) is a Japanese baseball infielder, who currently is a player-manager for the Fukushima Hopes in Japan's Baseball Challenge League. He made his Major League debut with the Tampa Bay Devil Rays in 2007. He earned the nickname "Aki" while in the United States. His nickname is "Gan-chan" in Japan.

Akinori Otsuka <=SEP=> Akinori Otsuka (大塚 晶則, Ōtsuka Akinori) (born January 13, 1972 in Chiba, Japan) is a retired Japanese Baseball Pitcher who coaches for the Chunichi Dragons in Nippon Professional Baseball. He was formerly the set-up man for the San Diego Padres and the Texas Rangers. He was also the closer for Japan's 2006 World Baseball Classic winning team.Otsuka threw a low-90's 4-seam fastball (tops out at about 94 mph) that is very straight, along with a hard, late-breaking slider.

Alex Cabrera <=SEP=> Alexander Cabrera Suzuki (born December 24, 1971) is a Venezuelan first baseman and right-handed batter who played in Major League Baseball and Nippon Professional Baseball. He was released by the Fukuoka SoftBank Hawks on July 31, 2012 after signing with them prior to the 2011 season.

Alex Ramírez <=SEP=> Alexander Ramón Ramírez (born 15 August 1974) is a Venezuelan former professional baseball outfielder who had a long career in Nippon Professional Baseball (NPB). He is the first foreign-born player to record 2,000 hits while playing in NPB. He previously played in Major League Baseball (MLB) for the Cleveland Indians (1998–2000) and Pittsburgh Pirates (2000). He batted and threw right-handed.

Alfonso Soriano <=SEP=> Alfonso Guilleard Soriano (born January 7, 1976) is a Dominican former professional baseball left fielder and second baseman. He played in Major League Baseball (MLB) for the New York Yankees, Chicago Cubs, Texas Rangers, and Washington Nationals, and in Nippon Professional Baseball for the Hiroshima Toyo Carp.Soriano began his professional career with Hiroshima in 1996, but signed with the Yankees as a free agent in 1998 and was assigned to play in minor league baseball.

American expatriate baseball players in Japan <=SEP=> American expatriate baseball players in Japan have been a feature of the Japanese professional leagues since 1934. American expatriate players began to steadily find spots on Nippon Professional Baseball (NPB) rosters in the 1960s. More than 600 Americans have played NPB, although very few last more than a single season in Japan.Many of the most celebrated American expatriate players came to Japan after not finding success in the Major Leagues.

Andruw Jones <=SEP=> Andruw Rudolf Jones (Papiamento pronunciation: [ˈandruw ˈdʒonz]; born April 23, 1977) is a Dutch  baseball outfielder who is a currently a free agent. He has played in Major League Baseball (MLB) for the Atlanta Braves, Los Angeles Dodgers, Texas Rangers, Chicago White Sox and New York Yankees and in Nippon Professional Baseball (NPB) for the Tohoku Rakuten Golden Eagles.

Baseball awards <=SEP=> Professional baseball leagues, amateur-baseball organizations, sportswriting associations, and other groups confer awards on various baseball teams, players, managers, coaches, executives, broadcasters, writers, and other baseball-related people for excellence in achievement, sportsmanship, and community involvement.

Billy Williams (left fielder) <=SEP=> Billy Leo Williams (born June 15, 1938) is a retired American Major League Baseball (MLB) outfielder who played sixteen seasons for the Chicago Cubs and two seasons for the Oakland Athletics. Williams was inducted into the National Baseball Hall of Fame in 1987. In 1999, he was named a finalist for the Major League Baseball All-Century Team.Williams was one of the best Cubs players. He was the 1961 NL Rookie of the Year and was a National League (NL) and Cubs All-Star for six seasons.

Bobby Valentine <=SEP=> Robert John "Bobby" Valentine (born May 13, 1950) nicknamed "Bobby V" is a former American professional baseball player and manager. He is currently the athletic director at Sacred Heart University. Valentine played for the Los Angeles Dodgers (1969, 1971–72), California Angels (1973–75), New York Mets (1977–78), and Seattle Mariners (1979) in MLB.

Carl Yastrzemski <=SEP=> Carl Michael Yastrzemski (/jəˈstrɛmski/; nicknamed "Yaz"; born August 22, 1939) is an American former Major League Baseball player. He was elected to the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1989. Yastrzemski played his entire 23-year baseball career with the Boston Red Sox (1961–1983). He was primarily a left fielder, but also played 33 games as a third baseman and mostly was a first baseman and designated hitter later in his career.

Carlos Beltrán <=SEP=> Carlos Iván Beltrán (Spanish pronunciation: [ˈkarloz βelˈtɾan]; born April 24, 1977) is a Puerto Rican professional baseball outfielder and designated hitter for the New York Yankees of Major League Baseball (MLB). He has also played in MLB for the Kansas City Royals, Houston Astros, New York Mets, San Francisco Giants, and St. Louis Cardinals.Beltrán was the American League (AL) Rookie of the Year in 1999 while with the Royals.

Cecil Fielder <=SEP=> Cecil Grant Fielder (/ˈsɛsəl/; born September 21, 1963) is a former professional baseball player who was a noted power hitter in the 1980s and 1990s. He attended college at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV). He played with the Toronto Blue Jays (1985–88), Hanshin Tigers (1989), Detroit Tigers (1990–96), New York Yankees (1996–97), Anaheim Angels and Cleveland Indians (both in 1998).

Charlie Manuel <=SEP=> Charles Fuqua Manuel, Jr. (born January 4, 1944) is a former American professional baseball manager.  He played in Major League Baseball (MLB) in 1969–75 and in Nippon Professional Baseball as an outfielder in 1976–81. After his playing career, Manuel became an MLB coach and manager, most recently managing the Philadelphia Phillies in 2005–13. Manuel managed the Phillies to a championship title during the 2008 World Series. He now serves as the senior advisor to the Phillies General Manager.

Craig House (baseball) <=SEP=> Craig Michael House (born July 8, 1977 in Okinawa, Japan) is a former Major League Baseball pitcher. House was drafted by the Colorado Rockies in the 12th round of the 1999 Major League Baseball Draft. He made his debut on August 8, 2000, with the Rockies.

Daisuke Matsuzaka <=SEP=> Daisuke Matsuzaka  (松坂 大輔, Matsuzaka Daisuke, born September 13, 1980) is a Japanese professional baseball pitcher for the Fukuoka Softbank Hawks. He has played for the Boston Red Sox, New York Mets and Cleveland Indians of Major League Baseball (MLB) and the Seibu Lions of Nippon Professional Baseball (NPB).Matsuzaka was selected the MVP of the inaugural and the second World Baseball Classic, and is an Olympic bronze medalist.

Dan Brouthers <=SEP=> Dennis Joseph "Dan" Brouthers (/ˈbruːθərz/; May 8, 1858 – August 2, 1932) was an American first baseman in Major League Baseball whose career spanned the period from 1879 to 1896, with a brief return in 1904.

Dave Parker <=SEP=> David Gene Parker (born June 9, 1951), nicknamed "The Cobra", is an American former player in Major League Baseball. He was the 1978 National League MVP and a two-time batting champion. Parker was the first professional athlete to earn an average of one million dollars per year, having signed a 5-year, $5 million contract in January 1979. Parker's career achievements include 2712 hits, 339 home runs, 1493 runs batted in and a lifetime batting average of .290.

Dave Roberts (outfielder) <=SEP=> David Ray Roberts (born May 31, 1972) is a coach and former Major League Baseball (MLB) outfielder. He is currently a coach for the San Diego Padres. He played with the Cleveland Indians (1999-2001), Los Angeles Dodgers (2002-2004), Boston Red Sox (2004), San Diego (2005-2006), and San Francisco Giants (2007-2008). Roberts bats and throws left-handed. He is the son of a retired Marine in Japan (Waymon Roberts) and a Japanese mother (Eiko) and was raised in San Diego, California.

Dave Winfield <=SEP=> David Mark "Dave" Winfield (born October 3, 1951) is an American former Major League Baseball (MLB) right fielder. He is currently special assistant to the executive director of the Major League Baseball Players Association.

Don Buford <=SEP=> Donald Alvin Buford (born February 2, 1937) is a former Major League Baseball player. An infielder/outfielder, the switch-hitting Buford played for the Chicago White Sox (1963–67) and Baltimore Orioles (1968–72).

Don Money <=SEP=> Donald Wayne "Easy" Money (born June 7, 1947 in Washington, D.C., United States) is a retired major league baseball player. He currently serves as the special instructor of player development for the Milwaukee Brewers.Money spent most of his career as a third baseman and was a four-time All-Star. Known as one of the best defensive third basemen of the era, he batted and threw right-handed. He played for the Philadelphia Phillies (1968–1972) and the Milwaukee Brewers (1973–1983).

Don Zimmer <=SEP=> Donald William Zimmer (January 17, 1931 – June 4, 2014) was an American infielder, manager, and coach in Major League Baseball (MLB). Zimmer was involved in professional baseball from 1949 until his death, a span of 65 years.Zimmer signed with the Brooklyn Dodgers as an amateur free agent in 1949. He played in MLB with the Dodgers (1954–59, 1963), Chicago Cubs (1960–61), New York Mets (1962), Cincinnati Reds (1962), and Washington Senators (1963–65).

Doug Jennings <=SEP=> James Douglas Jennings (born September 30, 1964 in Atlanta, Georgia) is a former professional baseball player who played in the Major Leagues primarily as a utility player from 1988–1991 and 1993.Jennings played for Nippon Professional Baseball's Orix Blue Wave for three seasons (1995-1997).

Eddie Murray <=SEP=> Eddie Clarence Murray (born February 24, 1956), nicknamed "Steady Eddie", is a former Major League Baseball (MLB) first baseman and designated hitter. Spending most of his MLB career with the Baltimore Orioles, he ranks fourth in team history in both games played and hits. Though Murray never won a Most Valuable Player (MVP) Award, he finished in the top ten in MVP voting several times.

Ernie Banks <=SEP=> Ernest "Ernie" Banks (January 31, 1931 – January 23, 2015) nicknamed "Mr. Cub" and "Mr. Sunshine", was an American professional baseball player who played in Major League Baseball (MLB) as a shortstop and first baseman for the Chicago Cubs between 1953 and 1971. He was inducted into the National Baseball Hall of Fame in 1977, and was named to the Major League Baseball All-Century Team in 1999.Banks is regarded by some as one of the greatest players of all time.

Felipe Crespo <=SEP=> Felipe Javier Crespo (born March 5, 1973 in Río Piedras, Puerto Rico) is a former utility in Major League Baseball who played for three different teams between 1996 and 2001. Listed at 5'11, 195 lb., Crespo was a switch-hitter and threw right-handed. He is the older brother of César Crespo.Crespo was originally drafted by the Toronto Blue Jays in the third round of the 1990 Major League Baseball Draft.

Frank Robinson <=SEP=> Frank Robinson (born August 31, 1935) is an American former Major League Baseball outfielder and manager. He played for five teams from 1956 to 1976, and became the only player to win league MVP honors in both the National and American Leagues.  He won the Triple crown, was a member of two teams that won the World Series (the 1966 and 1970 Baltimore Orioles), and amassed the fourth-most career home runs at the time of his retirement (he is currently ninth).

George Brett <=SEP=> George Howard Brett (born May 15, 1953), is an American retired baseball third baseman and designated hitter who played 21 years in Major League Baseball (MLB) for the Kansas City Royals. Brett's 3,154 career hits are the most by any third baseman in major league history and 16th all-time. Brett is one of four players in MLB history to accumulate 3,000 hits, 300 home runs, and a career .300 batting average (the others being Hank Aaron, Willie Mays, and Stan Musial).

Hank Greenberg <=SEP=> Henry Benjamin "Hank" Greenberg (January 1, 1911 – September 4, 1986), nicknamed "Hammerin' Hank," "Hankus Pankus" or "The Hebrew Hammer," was a former American professional baseball player. He played in Major League Baseball (MLB) primarily for the Detroit Tigers as a first baseman in the 1930s and 1940s.  A member of the Baseball Hall of Fame, he was one of the premier power hitters of his generation and is widely considered as one of the greatest sluggers in baseball history.

Hensley Meulens <=SEP=> Hensley Filemon Acasio "Bam Bam" Meulens (Papiamento pronunciation: [ˈhɛnsli ˈmʏiləns]; born June 23, 1967) is a retired Curaçaoan  professional baseball player and current hitting coach for the San Francisco Giants. A native of Curaçao, he played from 1989 to 2000 in Major League Baseball, Nippon Professional Baseball, and the Korea Baseball Organization.

Hideki Irabu <=SEP=> Hideki Irabu (伊良部 秀輝, Irabu Hideki, May 5, 1969 – July 24, 2011) was a Japanese professional baseball player of Japanese and American mixed ancestry. He played professionally in both Japan and the United States.

Hideki Matsui <=SEP=> Hideki Matsui (松井 秀喜, Matsui Hideki, born June 12, 1974) is a Japanese former professional baseball outfielder and designated hitter who played baseball in Japan and the United States. He batted left-handed and threw right-handed.After playing the first ten seasons of his career for the Yomiuri Giants of Japan's Nippon Professional Baseball, he played the next seven seasons, from 2003–2009, for the New York Yankees of North America's Major League Baseball.

Hideki Okajima <=SEP=> Hideki Okajima (岡島 秀樹, Okajima Hideki, born December 25, 1975) is a Japanese professional baseball pitcher. He is currently with the Yokohama DeNA BayStars. He played with the Boston Red Sox from 2007-2011, and was elected to the 2007 Major League Baseball All-Star Game as a first time All-Star via the Monster All-Star Final Vote. He became the first Japanese-born pitcher to play in the World Series in Game 2 of the 2007 series.

Hideo Nomo <=SEP=> Hideo Nomo (野茂 英雄|Nomo Hideo?, born August 31, 1968 in Minato-ku, Osaka, Japan) is a retired Japanese-American baseball pitcher in Nippon Professional Baseball (NPB) and Major League Baseball (MLB). He achieved early success in his native country, where he played with the Kintetsu Buffaloes from 1990 to 1994.

Hiroki Kuroda <=SEP=> Hiroki Kuroda (黒田 博樹, Kuroda Hiroki, born February 10, 1975) is a Japanese professional baseball pitcher for the Hiroshima Toyo Carp of Nippon Professional Baseball (NPB). He pitched in NPB for Hiroshima from 1997 through 2007 before playing in Major League Baseball for the Los Angeles Dodgers from 2008 through 2011 and for the New York Yankees from 2012 to 2014.

Hisashi Iwakuma <=SEP=> Hisashi Iwakuma (岩隈 久志, Iwakuma Hisashi, born April 12, 1981) is a Japanese professional baseball pitcher with the Seattle Mariners of Major League Baseball (MLB). He previously played for the Osaka Kintetsu Buffaloes and Tohoku Rakuten Golden Eagles of Nippon Professional Baseball (NPB)Iwakuma made his professional debut with the Buffaloes in 2000. He was named a NPB All-Star in 2003 and 2004, and played in the 2004 Athens Olympics. He joined the Eagles in 2005.

Ichiro Suzuki <=SEP=> Ichiro Suzuki (鈴木 一朗, Suzuki Ichirō), often referred to mononymously as Ichiro (イチロー, Ichirō) (born October 22, 1973), is a Japanese professional baseball right fielder for the Miami Marlins of Major League Baseball (MLB). Originally a player in Japan's Nippon Professional Baseball (NPB), Ichiro moved to the United States in 2001 to play in Major League Baseball (MLB) for the Seattle Mariners, with whom he spent 11 seasons, and later the New York Yankees.

Jack Lind <=SEP=> Jackson Hugh Lind (born June 8, 1946 in Denver, Colorado) is a retired Major League Baseball shortstop, first baseman, second baseman, and third baseman. He played during two seasons at the major league level for the Milwaukee Brewers, as well as one season in Japan for the Yomiuri Giants. He was drafted by the Houston Astros in the 7th round of the secondary phase of the 1967 Major League Baseball Draft.After retiring from playing, Lind began a managing career in the minor leagues.

Jim Lefebvre <=SEP=> James Kenneth "Jim" Lefebvre (born January 7, 1942) is a former second baseman, third baseman and manager in Major League Baseball.  Lefebvre, the 1965 National League Rookie of the Year, was signed by the Los Angeles Dodgers as an amateur free agent in 1962.  In 1965, his rookie year, he hit .250 with 12 home runs and 69 RBI.  Lefebvre was named to the All-Star Game in 1966.  He also played four seasons in Japan, from 1973 until 1976, for the Lotte Orions.

Jim Rice <=SEP=> James Edward "Jim" Rice (born March 8, 1953), nicknamed "Jim Ed", is a former Major League Baseball left fielder and designated hitter who played his entire 16-year baseball career for the Boston Red Sox.Rice was an eight-time American League (AL) All-Star and was named the AL's Most Valuable Player in 1978 after becoming the first major league player in 19 years to hit for 400 total bases. He went on to become the ninth player to lead the major leagues in total bases in consecutive seasons.

Jim Tatum (baseball) <=SEP=> Jimmy Tatum (born October 9, 1967 in San Diego, California) is a former Major League Baseball first baseman, third baseman, catcher and outfielder.He was drafted by the San Diego Padres in the 3rd round of the 1985 Major League Baseball Draft, Tatum was the American Association MVP in 1992, batting .329 with 19 home runs and 101 RBI.Tatum made his major league debut with the Milwaukee Brewers on September 18, 1992, and appeared in his final game on June 11, 1998.Tatum was a member of the inaugural Colorado Rockies team that began play in Major League Baseball in 1993.

Jimmie Foxx <=SEP=> James Emory "Jimmie" Foxx (October 22, 1907 – July 21, 1967), nicknamed "Double X" and "The Beast", was an American baseball first baseman who played 20 seasons in Major League Baseball for four different teams.

Joe Morgan <=SEP=> Joe Leonard Morgan (born September 19, 1943) is a former Major League Baseball second baseman who played for the Houston Astros, Cincinnati Reds, San Francisco Giants, Philadelphia Phillies, and Oakland Athletics from 1963 to 1984. He won two World Series championships with the Reds in 1975 and 1976 and was also named the National League Most Valuable Player in those years. Considered one of the greatest second basemen of all-time, Morgan was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1990.

Joe Stanka <=SEP=> Joe Donald Stanka (born July 23, 1931) is a retired American professional baseball player. The right-handed pitcher from Hammon, Oklahoma played for the Chicago White Sox of Major League Baseball (1959), and the Nankai Hawks and Taiyo Whales in the Japanese professional leagues (1960–66).  He stood 6 feet 6 inches (1.98 m) tall and weighed 201 pounds (91 kg).

Joe Torre <=SEP=> Joseph Paul "Joe" Torre (/ˈtɔri/; born July 18, 1940) is an American professional baseball executive, serving in the capacity of Major League Baseball's (MLB) chief baseball officer since 2011.  A former player, manager and television color commentator, Torre ranks fifth all-time in MLB history with 2,326 wins as a manager.  With 2,342 hits during his playing career, Torre is the only major leaguer to achieve both 2,000 hits and 2,000 wins as a manager.

José López (baseball) <=SEP=> José Celestino López (born November 24, 1983) is a Venezuelan professional baseball infielder who is a free agent. López has previously played in Major League Baseball for the Seattle Mariners, Colorado Rockies, Florida Marlins,  Cleveland Indians and Chicago White Sox and for the Yomiuri Giants, Yokohama DeNA BayStars of Nippon Professional Baseball.

Julio Franco <=SEP=> Julio César Robles Franco (born August 23, 1958) is a professional infielder, designated hitter, and manager for the semi-professional Ishikawa Million Stars of the Baseball Challenge League of Japan. In 2007, Franco was the oldest active player in the major leagues at the age of 49.While Franco was an All-Star and posted above-average hitting statistics throughout his career, he is best known for being the oldest regular position player in Major League history.

Kazuhiro Sasaki <=SEP=> Kazuhiro "Daimajin"  Sasaki (佐々木 主浩 Sasaki Kazuhiro, born February 22, 1968 in Sendai City, Japan) is a former Nippon Professional Baseball and Major League Baseball right-handed relief pitcher. He played his entire NPB career with the Yokohama Taiyo Whales / Yokohama BayStars (1990–1999; 2004–2005). Sasaki played his entire MLB career with the Seattle Mariners (2000–2003).

Kazuhisa Ishii <=SEP=> Kazuhisa Ishii (石井 一久 Ishii Kazuhisa) (born September 9, 1973 in Chiba City, Chiba Prefecture, Japan) is a Japanese former Major League Baseball pitcher who plays for the Saitama Seibu Lions.

Kazuhito Tadano <=SEP=> Kazuhito Tadano (多田野 数人, Tadano Kazuhito, born April 25, 1980 in Tokyo, Japan) is a right-handed pitcher and coach for the Ishikawa Million Stars in Japan's Baseball Challenge League. He had previously pitched in Major League Baseball for the Cleveland Indians.

Kazuo Fukumori <=SEP=> Kazuo Fukumori (福盛 和男, Fukumori Kazuo, born August 4, 1976) is a former Japanese right-handed relief pitcher.

Kazuo Matsui <=SEP=> Kazuo "Kaz" Matsui (松井 稼頭央, Matsui Kazuo) (born October 23, 1975) is a Japanese second baseman for the Tohoku Rakuten Golden Eagles of Nippon Professional Baseball. Matsui is a switch-hitter. Matsui has no relation to former player Hideki Matsui.Matsui signed with the New York Mets on December 17, 2003, becoming the first Japanese infielder to sign with a Major League Baseball team.

Kei Igawa <=SEP=> Kei Igawa (井川 慶, Igawa Kei, born July 13, 1979) is a Japanese left-handed starting pitcher who is currently playing for the Orix Buffaloes originally from Ōarai, Ibaraki, Japan. He played for the Hanshin Tigers of Nippon Professional Baseball from 1999 to 2006. He led all pitchers in the Central League for strikeouts in 2002, 2004 and 2006. He also played in the 2006 Major League Baseball Japan All-Star Series.

Keiichi Yabu <=SEP=> Keiichi Yabu (藪 恵壹, Yabu Keiichi, real name: 藪 恵一) (born September 28, 1968 in Mihama, Mie Prefecture, Japan) is a Japanese baseball pitching coach for the Hanshin Tigers and a former baseball pitcher. He played eleven seasons in Japan, and parts of two seasons in Major League Baseball for the Oakland Athletics in 2005 and the San Francisco Giants in 2008.

Ken Griffey Jr. <=SEP=> George Kenneth "Ken" Griffey, Jr. (born November 21, 1969), nicknamed "Junior" and "The Kid", is an American former professional baseball outfielder who played 22 years in Major League Baseball (MLB) for three teams (1989–2010). He spent most of his career with the Seattle Mariners and Cincinnati Reds, along with a short stint with the Chicago White Sox.

Ken Macha <=SEP=> Kenneth Edward Macha (/ˈmɑːkə/; born September 29, 1950, in Monroeville, Pennsylvania) is a former Major League Baseball third baseman and manager.

Kenji Johjima <=SEP=> Kenji Johjima (城島 健司, Jōjima Kenji, born June 8, 1976 in Sasebo, Japan) /ˈdʒoʊdʒiːmə/ is a Japanese former professional baseball player. He played as a catcher in Major League Baseball for four years with the Seattle Mariners in the American League, then returned to Japan and played for the Hanshin Tigers.On November 21, 2005, Johjima and the Mariners agreed to a $16.5 million, three-year contract.

Kirby Puckett <=SEP=> Kirby Puckett (March 14, 1960 – March 6, 2006) was an American professional baseball player. He played his entire 12-year Major League Baseball (MLB) career as a center fielder for the Minnesota Twins (1984–1995). Puckett is the Twins' all-time leader in career hits, runs, doubles, and total bases.

Koji Uehara <=SEP=> Koji Uehara (上原 浩治, Uehara Kōji, born April 3, 1975) is a Japanese professional baseball pitcher who plays for the Boston Red Sox. He has played in Nippon Professional Baseball (NPB) with the Yomiuri Giants and in Major League Baseball (MLB) for the Baltimore Orioles, Texas Rangers and Boston Red Sox.A right-handed pitcher, Uehara has a solid career strikeout rate, with 10.6 K/9 and an excellent walk rate at 1.2 BB/9 (until 2014 season).

Kosuke Fukudome <=SEP=> Kosuke Fukudome (福留 孝介, Fukudome Kōsuke, born April 26, 1977) (pronounced KOH-skay Foo-koo-DOUGH-may) is a Japanese professional baseball outfielder for the Hanshin Tigers.Prior to arriving in the United States, Fukudome played nine seasons for the Chunichi Dragons of the Japanese Central League.

Kyuji Fujikawa <=SEP=> Kyuji Fujikawa (藤川 球児, Fujikawa Kyūji, born July 21, 1980) is a Japanese professional baseball pitcher who is currently a free agent. He previously pitched for the Hanshin Tigers of Nippon Professional Baseball and the Chicago Cubs and Texas Rangers of Major League Baseball (MLB).Fujikawa pitched in the 2006 and 2009 World Baseball Classics as well as the 2008 Beijing Olympics.

Larry Doby <=SEP=> Lawrence Eugene Doby (December 13, 1923 – June 18, 2003) was an American professional baseball player in the Negro leagues and Major League Baseball (MLB) who was the second black player to break baseball's color barrier. A native of Camden, South Carolina and three-sport all-state athlete while in high school in Paterson, New Jersey, Doby accepted a basketball scholarship from Long Island University.

Larry Raines <=SEP=> Lawrence Glenn Hope Raines (March 9, 1930 – January 28, 1978) was a Major League Baseball infielder who played for two seasons. He is reportedly one of the only people to play Minor League Baseball, Negro League baseball, Japanese Baseball, and Major League Baseball.Raines first played for the Chicago American Giants in Negro league baseball.In 1953, he and fellow American Rufus Gaines traveled to Japan.

Lee Thomas (baseball) <=SEP=> James Leroy "Lee" Thomas (born February 5, 1936) is a former player and current front-office executive in American Major League Baseball. As general manager of the Philadelphia Phillies from 1988 to 1997, Thomas built the Phillies from a below .500 club into the 1993 champions of the National League.In his playing days, Thomas was a powerful outfielder and first baseman who batted left-handed and threw right-handed.

Lefty O'Doul <=SEP=> Francis Joseph "Lefty" O'Doul (March 4, 1897 – December 7, 1969) was an American Major League Baseball player who went on to become an extraordinarily successful manager in the minor leagues, and also a vital figure in the establishment of professional baseball in Japan.

List of Major League Baseball players from Europe <=SEP=> The following is a list of Major League Baseball players born in European nations.

List of Major League Baseball players from Japan <=SEP=> A total of 54 Japanese-born players have played in at least one Major League Baseball (MLB) game. Of these players, nine are currently on MLB rosters. The first instance of a Japanese-born player playing in MLB occurred in 1964, when the Nankai Hawks, a Nippon Professional Baseball (NPB) team, sent three exchange prospects to the United States to gain experience in MLB's minor league system.

List of countries with their first Major League Baseball player <=SEP=> The globalization of baseball has been occurring since its inception. The early years saw an influx of players from western Europe.  Major League Baseball eventually saw fewer European players, but more players from Latin America.  Today Major League Baseball has players from five continents.

Mac Suzuki <=SEP=> Mac Suzuki (マック鈴木, born Makoto Suzuki (鈴木 誠, Suzuki Makoto) May 31, 1975 in Kobe, Japan) is a Japanese former professional baseball pitcher. Over his career, Suzuki had played 18 seasons in professional baseball, including six in Major League Baseball and one in the Japan Pacific League. In his major league career, he has played for the Seattle Mariners (1996, 1998–1999), the Kansas City Royals (1999–2001, 2002), the Colorado Rockies (2001), and the Milwaukee Brewers (2001).

Major League Baseball <=SEP=> Major League Baseball (MLB) is a professional baseball organization that is the oldest of the four major professional sports leagues in the United States and Canada. A total of 30 teams now play in the American League (AL) and National League (NL), with 15 teams in each league. The AL and NL operated as separate legal entities from 1901 and 1876 respectively. In 2000, the leagues merged into a single organization led by the Commissioner of Baseball.

Major League Baseball Most Valuable Player Award <=SEP=> The Major League Baseball Most Valuable Player Award (MVP) is an annual Major League Baseball (MLB) award, given to one outstanding player in the American League and one in the National League. Since 1931, it has been awarded by the Baseball Writers' Association of America (BBWAA).

Major League Baseball Players Association <=SEP=> The Major League Baseball Players Association (or MLBPA) is the union of professional major-league baseball players.

Masahide Kobayashi <=SEP=> Masahide "Masa" Kobayashi (小林 雅英, Kobayashi Masahide, born May 24, 1974 in Ōtsuki, Yamanashi, Japan) is a former professional baseball pitcher who currently is the pitching coach for the Chiba Lotte Marines.From 1997-2007, Kobayashi played in the Nippon Professional Baseball league for the Chiba Lotte Marines.

Masahiro Tanaka <=SEP=> Masahiro Tanaka (田中 将大, Tanaka Masahiro, born November 1, 1988) is a Japanese professional baseball starting pitcher for the New York Yankees of Major League Baseball (MLB).

Masanori Murakami <=SEP=> Masanori "Mashi" Murakami (村上 雅則, Murakami Masanori, born May 6, 1944 in Ōtsuki, Yamanashi) is a retired Japanese baseball player.He is notable for being the first Japanese player to play for a Major League Baseball team. Sent over to the United States by the Nankai Hawks, Murakami saw success as a reliever for the San Francisco Giants, debuting at the age of 20 in 1964. In 1965, he struck out over one batter per inning pitched, posted an ERA under 4 and earned eight saves.

Masao Kida <=SEP=> Masao Kida (木田 優夫, Kida Masao, born September 12, 1968) is a Japanese baseball pitcher for the Ishikawa Million Stars of Japan's Baseball Challenge League. He played in Major League Baseball from 1999-2000, and 2003-2005.

Masato Yoshii <=SEP=> Masato Yoshii (吉井 理人, Yoshii Masato, born April 20, 1965) is a retired Japanese professional baseball player who is the former pitching coach for the Hokkaido Nippon-Ham Fighters in the Japanese Pacific League. He pitched in Major League Baseball from 1998 to 2002.

Masumi Kuwata <=SEP=> Masumi Kuwata (桑田 真澄 Kuwata Masumi, born 1 April 1968 in Yao, Osaka, Japan) is a former Japanese right-handed pitcher who played the bulk of his career with the Yomiuri Giants of Nippon Professional Baseball. He pitched 21 seasons with the Giants, beginning in 1986. Near the end of his career, he played part of one season with the Pittsburgh Pirates of Major League Baseball.

Matt Stairs <=SEP=> Matthew Wade Stairs (born February 27, 1968) is a Canadian former professional baseball outfielder, first baseman, designated hitter, and pinch hitter who holds the record for most pinch-hit home runs in Major League history with 23.

Micheal Nakamura <=SEP=> Micheal Yoshihide Nakamura (マイケル中村, Maikeru Nakamura, born September 6, 1976 in Nara, Japan) is a former professional baseball pitcher. He has played in Major League Baseball and Nippon Professional Baseball.He was educated at The Knox School and Wesley College, Melbourne.

Miguel Tejada <=SEP=> Miguel Odalis Tejada (born Tejeda, May 25, 1974) is a Dominican professional baseball infielder who is currently with the Pericos de Puebla of the Mexican League. Tejada has played for the Oakland Athletics, Baltimore Orioles, Houston Astros, San Diego Padres, San Francisco Giants and Kansas City Royals.Tejada spent his first six seasons in MLB with the Athletics, where he began his streak of 1,152 consecutive games, that ended with the Orioles on June 22, 2007.

Munenori Kawasaki <=SEP=> Munenori Kawasaki (川﨑 宗則, Kawasaki Munenori, born June 3, 1981) is a Japanese professional baseball shortstop and second baseman for the Toronto Blue Jays of Major League Baseball (MLB). Previously, he played for the Fukuoka SoftBank Hawks of Nippon Professional Baseball, and the Seattle Mariners of Major League Baseball. He played for the Japanese national team in the 2008 Beijing Olympics as well as the 2006 and 2009 World Baseball Classics.

Nick Testa <=SEP=> Nicholas Testa is a former professional baseball catcher and coach. He played briefly in both Major League Baseball and Nippon Professional Baseball.Testa began his professional career in 1946 at the age of 17 with the Newburgh Hummingbirds. Testa had one of the briefest major league baseball careers ever. He played just one inning of one game for the San Francisco Giants in 1958, never coming to bat in the major leagues. In his one chance on defense, he committed an error.

Nippon Professional Baseball <=SEP=> Nippon Professional Baseball (日本野球機構, Nippon Yakyū Kikō) or NPB is the highest level of baseball in Japan. Locally, it is often called Puro Yakyū (プロ野球), meaning Professional Baseball. Outside of Japan, it is often just referred to as "Japanese baseball". The roots of the league can be traced back to the formation of the "Greater Japan Tokyo Baseball Club" (大日本東京野球倶楽部, Dai-Nippon Tōkyō Yakyū Kurabu) in 1934 and the original Japanese Baseball League.

Nomar Garciaparra <=SEP=> Anthony Nomar Garciaparra (/ˈnoʊmɑr ɡɑrˌsiːəˈpɑrə/; born July 23, 1973) is a former American Major League Baseball player and current SportsNet LA  analyst.  After playing parts of nine seasons as an All-Star shortstop for the Boston Red Sox, he played Third Base and First Base for the Chicago Cubs, Los Angeles Dodgers, and the Oakland Athletics.

Nori Aoki <=SEP=> Norichika "Nori" Aoki (青木 宣親, Aoki Norichika, born January 5, 1982) is a Japanese professional baseball right fielder for the San Francisco Giants of Major League Baseball (MLB). He has also played in MLB for the Milwaukee Brewers and Kansas City Royals and for the Tokyo Yakult Swallows of Nippon Professional Baseball (NPB).Aoki is one of only four players to amass 200 or more hits in a single season in Japanese professional baseball.

Orestes Destrade <=SEP=> Orestes Cucuas Destrade  (born May 8, 1962), is a former professional baseball infielder. He's now a broadcaster for the Tampa Bay Rays.

Orlando Merced <=SEP=> Orlando Luis Merced Villanueva (born November 2, 1966 in Hato Rey, Puerto Rico) is a former Major League Baseball first Baseman and outfielder. He played all or part of thirteen seasons in the majors for the Pittsburgh Pirates (1990–1996), Toronto Blue Jays (1997), Minnesota Twins (1998), Boston Red Sox (1998), Chicago Cubs (1998), Montreal Expos (1999), and Houston Astros (2001–2003). He also played one season for the Orix BlueWave (2000) in Japan.

Paul Molitor <=SEP=> Paul Leo Molitor (born August 22, 1956), nicknamed "Molly" and "The Ignitor", is an American former Major League Baseball (MLB) player and current manager of the Minnesota Twins, who is in the Baseball Hall of Fame. During his 21-year baseball career, he played for the Milwaukee Brewers (1978–1992), Toronto Blue Jays (1993–1995), and Minnesota Twins (1996–1998). He was known for his exceptional hitting and speed.

Pete Rose <=SEP=> Peter Edward "Pete" Rose, Sr. (born April 14, 1941), also known by his nickname "Charlie Hustle", is a former Major League Baseball player and manager. Rose played from 1963 to 1986, and managed from 1984 to 1989.Rose, a switch hitter, is the all-time Major League leader in hits (4,256), games played (3,562), at-bats (14,053), singles (3,215), and outs (10,328).

Phil Nevin <=SEP=> Phillip Joseph Nevin (born January 19, 1971) is an American professional baseball Manager for the  Arizona Diamondbacks Triple-A affiliate, the Reno Aces.  He spent twelve seasons as a player in Major League Baseball (MLB) from 1995 through 2006, playing for the Houston Astros, Detroit Tigers, Anaheim Angels, San Diego Padres, Texas Rangers, Chicago Cubs, and Minnesota Twins.

Posting system <=SEP=> The posting system (ポスティングシステム, posutingu shisutemu) is a baseball player transfer system that operates between Japan's Nippon Professional Baseball (NPB) and the United States' Major League Baseball (MLB), or between the Korea Baseball Organization (KBO) and Major League Baseball (MLB). Despite the drafting of the United States – Japanese Player Contract Agreement in 1967 designed to regulate NPB players moving to MLB, problems arose in the late 1990s.

Reggie Smith <=SEP=> Carl Reginald Smith (born April 2, 1945) is an American former professional baseball player. He played in Major League Baseball as an outfielder and afterwards served as a coach and front office executive. He also played in the Nippon Professional Baseball league for two seasons at the end of his playing career. During a seventeen-year major league career (1966–1982), Smith appeared in 1,987 games, hit 314 home runs and batted .287. He was a switch-hitter who threw right-handed.

Rickey Henderson <=SEP=> Rickey Nelson Henley Henderson (born December 25, 1958) is a retired American baseball left fielder who played in Major League Baseball (MLB) for nine teams from 1979 to 2003, including four stints with his original team, the Oakland Athletics. Nicknamed "The Man of Steal", he is widely regarded as the sport's greatest leadoff hitter and baserunner. He holds the major league records for career stolen bases, runs, unintentional walks and leadoff home runs.

Ryan Braun <=SEP=> Ryan Braun (born November 17, 1983) is an American baseball outfielder for the Milwaukee Brewers of Major League Baseball (MLB). Braun is considered a five-tool player for his ability to hit for power and average, his baserunning speed, and his excellent fielding and arm strength.

Satoru Komiyama <=SEP=> Satoru Komiyama (小宮山 悟, Komiyama Satoru), born September 15, 1965, is a former professional baseball player from Kashiwa, Chiba, Japan. He last played with the Chiba Lotte Marines, and played in the major leagues with the New York Mets in 2002.

Shigetoshi Hasegawa <=SEP=> Shigetoshi Hasegawa (長谷川 滋利, Hasegawa Shigetoshi, born August 1, 1968) is a retired relief pitcher in Major League Baseball and best-selling author and Japanese television personality. He achieved the most recognition when he played for the Seattle Mariners from 2002 through 2005. Previously, Hasegawa played with the Anaheim Angels (1997–2001), and before that spent six years with the Orix BlueWave. He bats and throws right-handed.

Shingo Takatsu <=SEP=> Shingo Takatsu (高津 臣吾, Takatsu Shingo) (born November 25, 1968 in Hiroshima, Japan) is a former professional baseball pitcher. He had a short stint with the Chicago White Sox where he was the closer for two seasons until struggles closing games ultimately led to his demotion to the minors. Despite being demoted in the summer of 2005, he received a World Series ring with the White Sox. He was signed by the New York Mets during the 2005 season, and he pitched in nine games for New York.

Shinji Mori <=SEP=> Shinji Mori (Japanese: 森 慎二, born September 12, 1974 in Iwakuni, Yamaguchi, Japan) is a right-handed pitcher in professional baseball.From 1997-2005, he played for the Seibu Lions in Nippon Professional Baseball.  After the 2005 season, he was acquired by the Tampa Bay Devil Rays through the posting system. Originally slated to compete for the Devil Ray's closer job during the 2006 MLB season, he tore the labrum in his shoulder and missed the entire season.

So Taguchi <=SEP=> So Taguchi (田口 壮, Taguchi Sō, born July 2, 1969) is a Japanese former outfielder.  After ten seasons with the Orix BlueWave of Nippon Professional Baseball, he played eight years in Major League Baseball with the St. Louis Cardinals, Philadelphia Phillies and Chicago Cubs, followed by a final two years in Japan with the Orix Buffaloes.Taguchi is the first Japanese National League player to win a World Series.

Tadahito Iguchi <=SEP=> Tadahito Iguchi (井口 資仁, Iguchi Tadahito, born December 4, 1974 in Nishitōkyō, Tokyo, Japan) is a Japanese second baseman currently playing for the Chiba Lotte Marines. As a member of the Chicago White Sox in 2005, he became the first Japanese-born player to win the World Series.

Takahito Nomura <=SEP=> Takahito Nomura (野村 貴仁, born January 10, 1969) is a former major league baseball player from Kōchi, Japan. He played on the Orix BlueWave, Yomiuri Giants, Nippon Ham Fighters, and Milwaukee Brewers. Nomura recorded his name as "Takaki Nomura" from 2000 to 2003.Nomura was one of the relief pitchers in the Pacific League during his early career, and his team won two championships (1995 and 1996) with his contributions from the bullpen.

Takashi Kashiwada <=SEP=> Takashi Kashiwada (柏田 貴史, born May 14, 1971 in Yatsushiro, Kumamoto, Japan) is a retired Japanese baseball player. He played for the Yomiuri Giants and the New York Mets. He was a Left-Handed Relief Pitcher who wore #18 while with the Mets. He Made his MLB Debut on May 1, 1997 and pitched in his Final MLB Game on September 18, 1997. He batted and threw Left.

Takashi Saito <=SEP=> Takashi Saito (斎藤 隆, Saitō Takashi) born February 14, 1970) is a Japanese professional baseball pitcher who is currently with the Tohoku Rakuten Golden Eagles of Nippon Professional Baseball.Saito previously pitched for the Yokohama BayStars in the Japanese Central League, compiling a record of 87–80 over 13 seasons. A closer in his initial season of 2006, Saito finished 8th place in the National League Cy Young Award voting, receiving a single third place vote.

Tim Raines <=SEP=> Timothy Raines (born September 16, 1959), nicknamed "Rock", is an American professional baseball coach and former player. He played as a left fielder in Major League Baseball for six teams from 1979 to 2002 and was best known for his 13 seasons with the Montreal Expos. He is regarded as one of the best leadoff hitters and baserunners in baseball history.

Tomo Ohka <=SEP=> Tomokazu Ohka (大家友和, Ōka Tomokazu, IPA: [oːka tomokazɯ]) (born March 18, 1976) is a Japanese professional baseball pitcher who currently plays for the Fukushima Hopes in Japan's Baseball Challenge League. Previously he played for the Boston Red Sox (1999–2001), Montreal Expos (2001–2004), Washington Nationals (2005), Milwaukee Brewers (2005–2006), Toronto Blue Jays (2007), and Cleveland Indians (2009).

Tony Pérez <=SEP=> Atanasio "Tony" Pérez Rigal (born May 14, 1942), is a former Major League Baseball player and member of the Baseball Hall of Fame.

Torey Lovullo <=SEP=> Salvatore Anthony "Torey" Lovullo (born July 25, 1965) is an American professional baseball coach and former Major League infielder and minor league manager. In his playing days he was listed at 6 feet 1 inch (1.85 m) tall and 185 pounds (84 kg) and was a switch hitter who threw right-handed.

Travis Ishikawa <=SEP=> Travis Takashi Ishikawa (born September 24, 1983) is an American professional baseball first baseman for the Pittsburgh Pirates of Major League Baseball (MLB). He stands 6 feet 3 inches (1.91 m) tall and weighs 220 pounds (100 kg). He bats and throws left-handed. Previously, he has played for the San Francisco Giants, the Milwaukee Brewers, the Baltimore Orioles, and the New York Yankees. Ishikawa has also filled in as an outfielder at times in his career.Ishikawa grew up in Washington State.

Tsuyoshi Shinjo <=SEP=> Tsuyoshi Shinjo (新庄 剛志, Shinjō Tsuyoshi, born January 28, 1972) is a former Japanese professional baseball outfielder. Shinjo is the second Japanese-born position player to play a Major League Baseball game and was the first Japanese-born player to appear in the World Series.

Willie Davis (baseball) <=SEP=> William Henry Davis (April 15, 1940, Mineral Springs, Arkansas – March 9, 2010, Burbank, California) was a center fielder in Major League Baseball who played most of his career for the Los Angeles Dodgers. At the end of his career he ranked seventh in major league history in putouts (5449) and total chances (5719) in the outfield, and third in games in center field (2237); he was also ninth in National League history in total outfield games (2274), and won Gold Glove Awards from 1971 to 1973.

Willie Stargell <=SEP=> Wilver Dornell "Willie" Stargell (March 6, 1940 – April 9, 2001), nicknamed "Pops" in the later years of his career, was an American professional baseball player. He played his entire Major League Baseball (MLB) career (1962–1982) as the left fielder and first baseman for the Pittsburgh Pirates of the National League (NL).

Yasuhiko Yabuta <=SEP=> Yasuhiko Yabuta (薮田 安彦, Yabuta Yasuhiko, born June 19, 1973 in Kishiwada, Osaka) is a Japanese baseball pitcher. He currently plays for the Chiba Lotte Marines in Japan's Nippon Professional Baseball. He competed in the 2006 World Baseball Classic and struck out Alex Rodriguez, Johnny Damon, and Derrek Lee.Yabuta made his professional debut with the Marines in 1996, and spent 12 years with the organization.

Yu Darvish <=SEP=> Yu Darvish (Japanese: ダルビッシュ 有, Hepburn: Darubisshu Yū, born August 16, 1986) is a Japanese starting pitcher for the Texas Rangers of Major League Baseball (MLB).  Darvish pitched in the 2008 Beijing Olympics as well as the 2009 World Baseball Classic as a member of the Japanese national team.He was considered by many to be the best pitcher in Japanese professional baseball prior to his arrival in Major League Baseball in 2012.