ST. PETERSBURG -- Reaching across the Pacific Ocean for help, the Devil Rays signed infielder Akinori Iwamura on Friday to a three-year contract worth $7.7 million, with a club option for a fourth year at $4.25 million.

 

"I am really excited and humbled by this opportunity," said Iwamura. "I look forward to being part of the Tampa Bay Devil Rays and wearing the uniform."

 

In November, the Rays won the negotiating rights to Iwamura through the posting system that enables Japanese players to play in the United States with a high bid of $4.5 million. That bid, which is paid to the Yakult Swallows, topped both the Indians and Padres.

 

The Rays had until Friday to sign Iwamura. If they were unable to hammer out a contract, Iwamura would have returned to Japan and the club wouldn't have paid the posting fee. "We are very pleased to add a player of Akinori's ability to our organization," said Rays executive vice president of baseball operations Andrew Friedman. "Akinori is a complete player who will make a significant impact on our club. This acquisition is one more step in our efforts to expand our footprint in player procurement in the international market."

 

Iwamura will make $1.8 million in 2007, $2.4 million in 2008 and $3.25 million in 2009. The club has a $4.25 million option for the 2010 season or a $250,000 buyout. The contract also has escalating bonuses in the first three years that could increase the option amounts. The Rays' guaranteed money in the deal -- including the posting fee -- amounts to $12.25 million.

 

"I think that from what I gathered, he really wants to play here," said Rays manager Joe Maddon at the Winter Meetings. "He's very self confident. I think he will be successful here."

 

A five-time All-Star and a six-time Gold Glove winner, Iwamura, 27, is a career .300 hitter in eight seasons. In 2006, he hit .311 with 32 homers and 77 RBIs for the Swallows.

 

Iwamura hit .389 for Japan in the World Baseball Classic last spring and played superb defense. The Rays observed Iwamura for the first time at the Classic and his performance prompted their bid for his services.

 

 

 

Third base is Iwamura's best position, and he is known to have a slick glove and a strong arm. The left-handed-hitting Iwamura gives the Rays flexibility, because he can also play first base, second base and the outfield. Given B.J. Upton's erratic play, Iwamura likely will play third for the Rays. Iwamura is the second player the Rays' new ownership has procured after going through the Japanese posting system to win negotiating rights. Reliever Shinji Mori was signed prior to the 2006 season before he suffered a torn labrum during Spring Training to end his season.

 

 

 

How about that! The Devil Rays are opening up their checkbook.

in sorry Akinori Iwamura

in sorry Akinori Iwamura

 

:lol

"I am really excited and humbled by this opportunity," said Iwamura. "I look forward to being part of the Tampa Bay Devil Rays and wearing the uniform."

 

Let's see how he feels halfway through the year...............

"I am really excited and humbled by this opportunity," said Iwamura. "I look forward to being part of the Tampa Bay Devil Rays and wearing the uniform."

 

Let's see how he feels halfway through the year...............

 

I think he is more excited about his pay check than playing for tampa. Hell I would play for tampa if they paid me.