Reports: Japanese Pitcher Kawakami Close To Deal With Braves

January 12, 2009 8:22 p.m. EST

Atlanta, GA (AHN) - Japanese free-agent pitcher Kenshin Kawakami is close to formalizing his transfer to the Atlanta Braves following a physical with the team Monday, multiple media outlets reported.

The medical is believed to be the final hurdle for the 33-year-old right-hander in joining the Braves.

The two parties reached a preliminary agreement over the weekend and Kawakami's arrival could help shore up the Braves' rotation, which missed John Smoltz and Mike Hampton to free agency.

Starters Tim Hudson and Tom Glavine remain sidelined with elbow injuries, leaving Atlanta with Jair Jurrjens, Jo-jo Reyes, Jorge Campillo and veteran acquisition Javier Vazquez.

Kawakami was the Central League MVP five years ago and was one of the most celebrated free-agent pitchers from Japan.

The 5-foot-10 hurler has nailed 112 games over a span of 11 seasons, including 9-5 in 2008, when he was limited with a strained back.

Kawakami recorded a 2.30 ERA this past season while playing for the Chunichi Dragons.