Twins sign Tsuyoshi Nishioka

The Minnesota Twins have signed 2B/SS Tsuyoshi Nishioka to a 3-year deal worth approximately $10 million.

The deal includes a $5.3 million posting fee for the right to negotiate with Nishioka.  The Twins won the posting rights for Nishioka back on November 26th and had 30 days to negotiate a contract.  He will receive a physical from the Twins Thursday evening and the deal will become official.

The Chiba Lotte Marines infielder won the batting title and a Gold Glove in Japan’s Pacific League last season.  The 26-year old batted .346 on the year and should replace JJ Hardy in the Twins lineup.