Post by Linalin on Feb 3, 2005 23:52:12 GMT -5
LOS ANGELES (AP) The Los Angeles Dodgers agreed Wednesday to a contract with third baseman Norihiro Nakamura, who played the past 12 years with the Kintetsu Buffaloes.
Nakamura, 31, was hampered by injuries last season and had 19 homers and a .247 batting average in 105 games. In December 2002, Nakamura agreed to join the New York Mets, then backed out of the deal to remain in Japan.
Los Angeles third baseman Adrian Beltre became a free agent after the season and signed with the Seattle Mariners, creating an opening.
The Dodgers made a bid for Nakamura last week and their offer was accepted by the Orix Buffaloes, his Japanese team, giving Los Angeles the right to negotiate with him.
Nakamura spent time working out with the Dodgers last year during their spring camp at Vero Beach, Fla.
It was unclear whether Nakamura would be agreeing to a major or minor league contract.
Nakamura, 31, was hampered by injuries last season and had 19 homers and a .247 batting average in 105 games. In December 2002, Nakamura agreed to join the New York Mets, then backed out of the deal to remain in Japan.
Los Angeles third baseman Adrian Beltre became a free agent after the season and signed with the Seattle Mariners, creating an opening.
The Dodgers made a bid for Nakamura last week and their offer was accepted by the Orix Buffaloes, his Japanese team, giving Los Angeles the right to negotiate with him.
Nakamura spent time working out with the Dodgers last year during their spring camp at Vero Beach, Fla.
It was unclear whether Nakamura would be agreeing to a major or minor league contract.
