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Twins IF Tsuyoshi Nishioka apologizes, asks for release

Twins middle infielder Tsuyoshi Nishioka had a rough stint in Minnesota. After two injury-plagued seasons of underperformance, Nishioka apologized and asked to be released from his contract.

By Chris Fuhrmeister
David Richard-US PRESSWIRE - Presswire

Minnesota Twins infielder Tsuyoshi Nishioka, a product of Japan who joined the team in 2011, asked for and was granted his release on Friday. By asking for his release, Nishioka gave up the $3.25 million remaining on his contract.

Nishioka struggled in his two seasons in Minnesota. He broke his leg in his sixth major league game and hit .215 with five extra-base hits in just 254 at-bats. In addition to Nishioka's contract, the Twins had to pay $5.3 million for the rights to negotiate with the infielder.

In a statement released by the Twins, Nishioka took responsibility for his poor play and seemed happy to be moving on:

"I take full responsibility for my performance which was below my own expectations. At this time, I have made the decision that it is time to part ways. I have no regrets and know that only through struggle can a person grow stronger."

Photographs by Micah Taylor, clairity, and Fibonacci Blue used in background montage under Creative Commons. Thank you.