KANSAS CITY, Mo. — The Kansas City Royals released Hideo Nomo today, probably ending the Japanese right-hander's big league career.

The Royals designated Nomo for assignment on April 20, 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, including three home runs, in 4 1-3 innings. Nomo had not pitched in the majors since 2005 before attempting a comeback this year with the Royals.

Nomo's 123 victories in the majors are the most by a Japanese pitcher. He was the 1995 NL Rookie of the Year with the Los Angeles Dodgers and threw two no-hitters in his career.