The Japan Red Sox

According to the Japan Times and Boston.com, the Red Sox will sign Masumi Kuwata to a minor league deal shortly giving him an invitation to spring training. Kuwata is a 38-year old RHP who has played for 20 seasons for the Yomiuri Giants. He would leave Boston with an experienced bullpen guy should the need arise.

Also today theres reports the Rangers have signed Eric Gagne to a $8 million contract which could open the door for Boston to aquire Akinori Otsuka for a OF perhaps Coco Crisp.

Oksuna in 202 career games has a 11-14 record with a 2.43 era, but was a full time closer in 2006 getting 32 saves. He will be 35 when the season starts and had 47K in 59.2 innings in '06. Stay tuned.