Right-hander Masahide Kobayashi on Saturday re-signed with the Lotte Marines for 155 million yen, up 55 million yen, for next season after setting saves records in 2002. Kobayashi earned "save points" -- a combination of saves and wins in relief -- in 33 straight appearances as the top pick in the 1998 draft went 2-1 with 37 saves in 43 games. He also set a Pacific League record with 17 saves in as many appearances.
"The club gave near-perfect marks to my season performance. But I still have goals of winning the pennant and lowering my ERA to as close to zero as possible," he said after compiling an 0.83 ERA.
Meanwhile in Osaka, the Hanshin Tigers said they have agreed on a deal with George Arias for next year and re-signed the former Orix BlueWave infielder for an annual salary of 168 million yen.