Tohoku Rakuten Golden Eagles infielder Kazuo Matsui re-signed Saturday with the Pacific League team on a fresh, two-year contract for an estimated annual salary of ¥160 million, plus performance-based incentives.
The Eagles captain, who will turn 40 in October next year, expressed his appreciation at being able to sign a multiyear deal at his age. "At my age, I am grateful to be able to get a two-year contract," he said. "I feel that I have to be more ready than ever."
Matsui, who reached 2,500 career hits in Japan and the major leagues in August, batted .291 with eight home runs in 128 games this past season.
In 2014, other than his regular position at shortstop, Matsui manned third base and played in left field. Due to the rise of younger players and to lessen the burden next season, Matsui is expected to play outfield.
"There are still many difficult things ahead, and I want to make the challenge," said Matsui.
Donaldson traded
Oakland California AP
The Oakland Athletics traded All-Star third baseman Josh Donaldson to the Toronto Blue Jays on Friday night for third baseman Brett Lawrie, left-hander Sean Nolin, right-hander Kendall Graveman and minor league shortstop Franklin Barreto.
