Yu Darvish Tells Rangers He Will Not Pitch for Japan in 2013 World Baseball Classic

by Ethan Bukowiec on Tue, Nov 6, 2012 at 11:31PM

Yu Darvish helped Japan win its second consecutive World Baseball Classic title in 2009, pitching in five games and posting an ERA of just 2.08.

As the country goes for its third straight title, it will have to do so without the Texas ace. Darvish has told the Rangers that he will not partake in the 2013 World Baseball Classic.

“Given my substantial workload over the last few seasons and the numerous changes I’ve endured in my move to the United States, I have decided with my team of advisers that getting ample rest is the most important thing for me right now as I prepare for the 2013 season,” Darvish said.

In his rookie season, Darvish went 16-6 with 221 strikeouts and a 3.90 ERA while on his way to earning his first MLB All-Star selection.

The hard-throwing right-hander’s decision can be owed to his commitment to the Rangers and the club’s hopes of winning a World Series title in 2013.

Thumbnail photo via Facebook/Texas Rangers