KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) -- The Kansas City Royals have released Hideo Nomo, possibly ending the Japanese right-hander's big league career.

The Royals designated Nomo for assignment on April 20th, then requested unconditional release waivers five days later.

The 39-year-old Nomo had an 18.69 ERA in three relief appearances, allowing nine runs and 10 hits in 4 1-3 innings.

Nomo had not pitched in the majors since 2005 before making a comeback this year with the Royals.

Nomo's 123 victories in the majors are the most by any Japanese pitcher.

He was the 1995 NL Rookie of the Year with the Los Angeles Dodgers and threw two no-hitters in his career.