From the Seattle Times’ Bob Finnegan.
Scoring the first big-name free-agent signing of the offseason, the Mariners will announce the signing of catcher Kenji Johjima (above), possibly as soon as today.
Sources say that Johjima has agreed to terms with Seattle. His name is much bigger in Japan, where he has averaged .305 with 30 homers the past five years and won seven straight Gold Gloves.
The Mariners increased their offer late last week from two years plus a club option for a third year to more than $5 million a year for three years, a deal that also includes incentives.
Also, Johjima and his family were said to take a liking to the Northwest in their visit last weekend.
Indeed, between the terrific weather and the fact that Candlebox broke up a long time ago, what’s not to like? Keep in mind that Jojima blew off a scheduled visit with the Mets last week.