Former Mariner Johjima Joins Hanshin Tigers
By wchung | 19 Apr, 2026

Former Seattle Mariners catcher Kenji Johjima has agreed to join the Hanshin Tigers of Japan’s Central League.

Johjima held talks with his former team, the Softbank Hawks of the Pacific League, but has opted instead to join the Tigers, the Nikkan Sports newspaper reported Tuesday.

Johjima opted out of the final two seasons and $15.8 million of his contract with the Mariners last week, allowing him to finish his career in Japan.