YOKOHAMA -- Bobby Rose, who announced his retirement last month, could sign a new one-year deal with the Yokohama BayStars after officials of the Central League club contacted the infielder's agent Wednesday.
The news comes 48 hours after Yokohama said it may place Rose on its reserve list for next season to prevent the former California Angel from joining another Japanese club. However, BayStars officials would not disclose details of any proposed offer.
"When I asked him if he wants to play in Japan, he said yes. He also said that Yokohama would be his No. 1 choice," said Yuichi Furukawa, who looks after Yokohama's overseas players.
Since Rose's decision to retire six weeks ago over a contract dispute with the BayStars front office, the Hanshin Tigers have expressed interest in enticing the 1999 Central League batting champion out of retirement.
The 33-year-old Rose earned an estimated 360 million yen this past season.