After a successful decade-long run in Japan's Nippon Professional Baseball to begin his professional career, Uehera made the leap to North America in 2009, signing a two-year deal with Baltimore. While seeing action with the Orioles, Rangers, Red Sox and Cubs over the next nine years, Uehara was one of the majors' most productive relievers, notching 95 saves and posting a 2.66 ERA and 26.5 K-BB% over 436 appearances. The 44-year-old returned to Japan after the 2017 campaign and has continued to work in a relief role for the Yomiuri Giants, but it appears he's now ready to close the book on a storied career. In addition to his achievements in the MLB, Uehara was an eight-time NPB All-Star.

The 42-year-old pitched for four teams in nine seasons since coming to America in 2009. He'll end his major-league career with a 2.66 ERA and 95 saves in 480.2 innings. His 79 saves for Boston rank seventh in Red Sox history.

Uehara will turn 43 in March and is unsure that he'll get a major-league offer before spring training starts. The right-hander pitched for the Cubs last season, appearing in 49 games and accruing a 3.98 ERA across 43.0 innings. If he's not offered a major-league contract, Uehara will call it quits after 10 seasons in Japan and 10 years of MLB service.

The 42-year-old has been dealing with an infection in his right knee, and manager Joe Maddon revealed Saturday that Uehara is also nursing a back issue. Uehara has not pitched in a game since Sept. 2 and it's uncertain when he may be able to return to active competition.