Left-hander Hideki Okajima said Monday he looks forward to demonstrating the experience he gained abroad in the major leagues after joining the Fukuoka Softbank Hawks.
The former Boston Red Sox reliever was acquired over the weekend by Softbank on a one-year deal worth ¥35 million.
"I want to show my stuff from the majors," Okajima said at a press conference at Yahoo Dome. "I just want to believe in myself and contribute to my new team."
Late last year Okajima, 36, signed a minor league deal with the New York Yankees, but the contract was nullified after he failed a physical due to concern about his left shoulder.
Okajima said that the shoulder is no longer an issue.
"I have been throwing fine in my practice sessions."