In a heart-wrenching announcement that has left Detroit Tigers fans reeling, Saho Maeda, wife of pitcher Kenta Maeda, broke her silence on May 16, 2025, about the devastating reason behind her husband’s abrupt retirement from the team. The former MLB star, known for his precision on the mound, was released by the Tigers earlier this month, with many attributing his exit to a dip in performance. However, Saho’s tearful statement on X revealed a far deeper, more personal struggle that forced Kenta to step away from the game he loved, shocking the baseball community.

Kenta Maeda, a 37-year-old veteran who joined the Tigers in 2024 after stints with the Dodgers and Twins, had been a fan favorite for his grit and leadership. Yet, his 2025 season was marred by inconsistency, with a 5.87 ERA and only three wins in 12 starts. Critics pointed to his declining fastball velocity and frequent injuries, including a 2021 Tommy John surgery, as reasons for his release. But Saho’s statement painted a different picture: Kenta had been battling a debilitating neurological condition, diagnosed in late 2024, which affected his coordination and stamina. “He hid it from everyone,” Saho wrote. “Kenta pitched through pain and fear, not wanting to let his team or fans down.”

The condition, which Saho described as “a silent thief,” progressively worsened, making it impossible for Kenta to maintain his elite performance. Despite his efforts to push through, the Tigers’ management, unaware of the full extent of his health struggles, opted to release him to make room for younger talent. “It broke his heart,” Saho shared, her voice breaking in a video posted on X. “He felt he failed Detroit, but he was fighting a battle no one could see.” The revelation has sparked an outpouring of support, with fans expressing guilt for judging his performance harshly.

Saho’s emotional plea highlighted Kenta’s dedication to baseball and his family. “He’d come home exhausted, unable to hold our children without trembling, but he’d still smile for them,” she said. The couple, married since 2012, decided to keep the diagnosis private to protect their two young children from public scrutiny. Kenta’s retirement, announced quietly last week, was framed as a mutual decision with the Tigers, but Saho’s statement suggests internal pressures played a role. “He deserved a chance to tell his truth,” she added.

The baseball world has rallied around Maeda. Tigers manager AJ Hinch posted on X, “Kenta’s a warrior. We’re devastated to learn this and stand with him.” Former teammate Miguel Cabrera called him “a brother,” urging fans to celebrate his legacy. On X, hashtags like #KentaStrong and #ThankYouMaeda trended, with fans sharing memories of his 2020 near-Cy Young season with Minnesota. “We misjudged him,” one fan wrote. “He was pitching for his life.”

Saho’s courage in sharing the truth has sparked conversations about mental and physical health in sports. Kenta, now focusing on treatment and family, plans to remain in Detroit, mentoring young players. “This isn’t the end,” Saho vowed. “Kenta will keep inspiring us.” As fans process this heartbreaking twist, Maeda’s legacy as a pitcher and a fighter shines brighter than ever, a testament to his resilience in the face of an unseen battle.