Jackson Rutledge Heads to Japan | MLB News

Jackson Rutledge, a former first-round draft pick by the Nationals, is heading overseas to Japan after being signed by the Fukuoka SoftBank Hawks — a bold move for the 27-year-old pitcher whose MLB career stalled due to injuries and inconsistent results. Once a highly-touted prospect, Rutledge struggled with command issues and a high ERA, ultimately being designated for assignment and released to pursue a fresh start. Armed with a powerful fastball averaging over 94 mph, he hopes to reinvent himself in NPB, following in the footsteps of other MLB draftees like Foster Griffin who thrived abroad. This signing offers Rutledge guaranteed money and a chance to rebuild his legacy — and potentially secure a lucrative return to the majors down the road. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/13e62470456f0e12