Seattle had signed Johjima to a $24 million, 3-year extension that began last year Johjima: "I have decided to return home to resume my career in Japan" Johjima: "I will always be indebted to the Mariners organization" Kenji Johjima hit .268 with 48 home runs and 198 RBIs in four seasons with the Mariners. SEATTLE (AP) -- The Mariners' Kenji Johjima opted out of the final two years of his contract, allowing him to sign with a Japanese team. In April 2008, Seattle had signed the 33-year-old catcher to a $24 million, three-year extension covering 2009-11. He gave up salaries of $7.7 million next year and $8.1 million in 2011. His deal gave him the right to end it by Nov. 15 for the purpose of finishing his career in Japan. "After lots of very deep thought and deliberation, I have decided to return home to resume my career in... [read full story]
