Fukudome Undecided, Iwase Staying In Japan

As you may have heard, Kosuke Fukudome filed for free agency today.  He’s listening to offers from both Japanese and MLB teams – he’s still undecided.  The Chunichi Dragons are not expected to modify their offer.  They’ve got a one year proposal out to Fukudome for about $3.5MM and a four-year offer for about $15.4MM.  The Hanshin Tigers are expected to offer something like four years, $20MM.  Obviously he could beat those offers in the U.S.  The Rangers, Cubs, Giants, Red Sox, Yankees, White Sox, and Padres have all been connected to Fukudome.

Meanwhile lefty closer Hitoki Iwase, coveted by many MLB teams, has decided to stay in Japan.  The Rockies, Royals, and Cubs had their eye on him.