Kenji Johjima has told the Seattle Mariners over the weekend that he will opt out of the final two years of his contractand become a free agent. Johjima was set to make $15.8 million in his two years with the Mariners and is now free to return to Japan.
Kenji Johjima Opts Out Of Mariners Contract
"After lots of very deep thought and deliberation, I have decided to return home to resume my career in Japan," Johjima said in a statement. "I have had a wonderful experience competing at the major league level. The last four years have been extraordinary, with great teammates and great coaches. I will always be indebted to the Mariners organization for giving me the opportunity to follow my dream.
"This was a very difficult decision, both professionally and personally. I feel now is the time to go home, while I still can perform at a very high level."
Johjima struggled in his four years as a Mariner, hitting .268 in those four years and only playing 71 games last year due to injuries and being benched.
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