The Seibu Lions said Monday they have acquired former Chiba Lotte Marines infielder Jose Fernandez on a one-year deal carrying an annual salary of $1.2 million, including a signing bonus plus performance-related incentives.
Fernandez, formerly of the Montreal Expos and Anaheim Angels, joined the Marines during the 2003 season and hit .303 with 32 home runs and 100 RBIs -- both team highs -- in 126 games but was released by the Chiba-based club at the end of the season.