NEW YORK (Kyodo) The Tampa Bay Devil Rays said Monday they have obtained the right to negotiate with pitcher Shinji Mori through the so-called posting system.
The announcement came hours after the Seibu Lions said they had accepted a bid for Mori without giving details, including the team that offered the highest bid.
The Devil Rays did not disclose the amount of their bid. They have until Jan. 11 to sign a contract with Mori.
A's sign Mac
LOS ANGELES (Kyodo) Pitcher Mac Suzuki, who was released by the Orix Buffaloes in September, has agreed with the Oakland Athletics on a minor league contract, his agent said Monday.
Suzuki, a 30-year-old right-hander who has played in the major leagues for six seasons, will join the Athletics' spring training as a non-roster invitee in a bid to make a comeback to the majors.
Suzuki made his major league debut in 1996 and went 16-31 in a career that included stints with Kansas City, Colorado and Milwaukee.