Illness in Family Forces Hershiser to Quit Japan Tour

Orel Hershiser, the National League playoffs’ and World Series most valuable player, said Monday that he will leave the major league all-star team currently touring Japan because of an illness in his family after he pitches in Tuesday’s third game of the seven-game series.

Hershiser said he will return to California on Wednesday because of the illness of his youngest child, Jordan.

“While baseball is very important to me, my family is and always will be my number one priority,” Hershiser said. “I am sorry I must leave early.”

His statement did not describe his child’s illness.

Hershiser started Saturday’s first game in the U.S.-Japan series and he allowed 3 hits and 1 run in 4 innings, but was not involved in the decision. Japan won, 2-1.