TOKYO (Kyodo) -- Former New York Yankees pitcher Masahiro Tanaka announced on his YouTube channel Sunday that he will leave the Pacific League's Rakuten Eagles and continue his career elsewhere.

According to the team, the 36-year-old opted to be released rather than accept a pay cut of 40 percent or more of his current salary.

"I've decided I will not sign a contract with Rakuten for next season and will look for a new team," the right-hander said.

Rakuten Eagles Senior Director Kazuhisa Ishii said, "Ultimately, it was his decision to get his release."

Tanaka is three wins shy of Japan's iconic milestone of 200 in his top-flight pro career, with 78 from his seven seasons with the Yankees from 2014 to 2020.

Since returning to the Eagles in 2021, Tanaka has a 20-33 record. He appeared in just one game for the Eagles this year and took the loss in a Sept. 28 start against the Orix Buffaloes.

"Although I have no idea where I might be playing next season, I'm in good condition and getting in good training," he said. "I'm now starting toward next season, when I want to pitch well and compete to make up for not pitching this season."

Tanaka moved to the Yankees via the posting system after going 24-0 in 2013 and leading Rakuten to the Pacific League pennant and a Japan Series championship.