After a 10-year career in Japan shortstop Munenori Kawasaki became a free agent last month and publicly stated that he only wanted to play for the Mariners.
That obviously limited his bargaining power considerably, but ultimately Kawasaki got his wish and revealed yesterday that he’s agreed to a minor-league deal with the Mariners that includes an invitation to spring training.
Kawasaki is an eight-time All-Star and career .294 hitter in Japan, but has never hit more than four homers in a season and will likely be competing for a utility man role in camp.