Team Infidel
Forum Spin Doctor
Associated Press
LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. - Takashi Saito, who recorded a franchise rookie-record 24 saves for the Los Angeles Dodgers last season after beginning the year in the minors, agreed Tuesday to $1 million, one-year contract.
The 36-year-old right-hander was signed to a minor league deal last February after spending 14 seasons in the Japanese major leagues, where he was a four-time All-Star. After being recalled from Triple-A Las Vegas on April 5, he appeared in 72 games, going 6-2 with a 2.07 ERA. He struck out 107 in 78 1-3 innings and blew only two save opportunities.
"Takashi came on to be one of the key players in last year's success," Dodgers general manager Ned Colletti said in a statement. "He stepped into a big role in the second half and handled it well. We're glad he's back."
Saito took over as the Dodgers' closer May 15, and allowed only 12 earned runs in 58 1-3 innings for a 1.85 ERA over his final 53 appearances.
Saito, who tied for seventh in the NL Rookie of the Year vote, worked 2 2-3 hitless innings in the NL division series against the New York Mets.