Jerry Crasnick of ESPN reports that pitcher Ross Ohlendorf has signed with the Tokyo Yakult Swallows of Japan’s Central League. He’ll make $1.6 million and could earn an additional $400,000 in incentives.
Not a bad deal for Ohlendorf who, after being released by the Royals in spring training, posted a 4.64 ERA and 68/32 K/BB ratio over 65.2 innings with the Cincinnati Reds in 2016. He probably would’ve had to sign a minor league deal if he wanted to pitch in the United States this year and, even if he made a team, would probably have gotten less than a $1 million deal. He made $800,000 in 2016.