Akira Tanaka is a common Japanese name, often associated with various individuals in different fields, including sports, arts, and business. One notable Akira Tanaka is a professional baseball player known for his skills as a pitcher. He has played for several teams in the Nippon Professional Baseball league and has gained recognition for his performance on the field. In addition to sports, Akira Tanaka may also refer to individuals in the film industry, such as directors or actors. The name is prevalent in Japan, making it important to specify the context when discussing a particular Akira Tanaka to avoid confusion with others who share the same name.