Seattle closer Sasaki signs two-year extension

Seattle Seattle Mariners closer Kazuhiro Sasaki signed a two-year contract extension Saturday that takes him through the 2004 season. The deal includes an option for a third year. Terms were not disclosed.

Sasaki rejoined the team Saturday, returning from a trip to Yokohama, Japan, where he went Thursday after his wife, Kaori, became ill.

Sasaki, 34, was going to be eligible for free agency after this season.

“Kazu is an important part of our success the past two seasons,” general manager Pat Gillick said. “In his role as closer, he is a key member of our bullpen and we are pleased to know he’ll be here through at least 2004.”

Sasaki pitched with the Yokohama Bay Stars from 1990-99 and set a Japanese record with 229 career saves.

Free agent Cordero signs with Expos

Montreal Free agent Wil Cordero signed with the Montreal Expos on Saturday, the latest player to return for a second stint with the troubled franchise this season. Cordero, released by Cleveland on April 29 with 999 career hits, became the third former Expos player after Andres Galarraga and Henry Rodriguez to rejoin the team in what will likely be it’s final season in Montreal. Cordero began his career with the Expos, playing in Montreal from 1992-95.

Rangers call Romano

Arliington Texas The Texas Rangers recalled infielder-outfielder Jason Romano from Triple-A Oklahoma before Saturday night’s game against the Detroit Tigers. To make room for Romano, the Rangers optioned right-hander Joaquin Benoit to Oklahoma.

Boston’s Ramirez has broken finger

Seattle Manny Ramirez of the Boston Red Sox broke the index finger on his left hand when he ran into Seattle catcher Dan Wilson’s shin guard in the second inning Saturday night.

Ramirez hurt his hand while sliding into the plate while attempting to score from first base on Shea Hillenbrand’s double in the second. He was tagged out on a headfirst slide as Wilson blocked the plate.

The Red Sox said Ramirez would fly back to Boston Sunday to be examined by Dr. Bill Morgan, the team’s physician.

Ramirez made his second start of the season in right field in the game. He was replaced by Trot Nixon in the bottom of the third.

Ramirez leads the AL with a .372 batting average. He also has nine homers and 35 RBIs.