The Yokohama BayStars have come to terms with right-handed reliever Jorge Sosa, the Central League club announced Wednesday. The two-year deal will be finalized after he passes a physical.
The 35-year-old Sosa was released by the Chunichi Dragons after he went 5-1 with four saves and 21 holds in 53 games this past season, his first in Japan. He struck out 50 batters in 63 1/3 innings. His new contract calls for him to receive ¥85 million next year with additional performance-based incentives.
Shun Yamaguchi, recorded 22 of the club's 24 saves last season, but general manager Shigeru Takada wants Sosa to compete for that role.
"If whoever is in better form works as the closer, then we will be in good hands in the eighth and ninth innings," Takeda said.
Sosa is the third player to move to the BayStars this offseason after being released by the Dragons, joining slugging first baseman Tony Blanco and left-hander Enyelbert Soto.