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Hideo Nomo, the 1995 National League Rookie of the Year, announced on his personal, Japanese-language Web site that he has agreed to terms on a minor-league deal with Kansas City that includes an invitation to big-league spring training. Part of his announcement, translated, reads: "I try to keep myself in good shape and do my best." Nomo, 39, was the first Japanese player to make a major impact in the major leagues when he won 43 games his first three seasons with the Dodgers, including a no-hitter at Coors Field in 1996. He won 45 more during 2001-03 with the Red Sox and Dodgers but then fell off fast after shoulder surgery. He last pitched in the big leagues in 2005 for the Devil Rays. -- KC Star

www.kansascity.com | 01/03/2008 | Royals sign veteran Japanese pitcher Nomo