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Kazuhiro Sasaki signed papers to terminate his contract, leaving behind a guaranteed $8.5 million next season because he wants to remain in Japan with his wife and two young children.

"I'm not sure what people are thinking, but most importantly my children are very happy," Sasaki said through an interpreter.

The Mariners placed their former closer on waivers, with other teams notified that Sasaki will not pitch if he's claimed. Seattle plans to give Sasaki his unconditional release when he clears waivers later this week. He plans to pitch in Japan next season.

PIRATES: Closer candidate Juan Acevedo, starter Rick Reed and utilityman Daryle Ward were among 16 players who were invited to spring training.

ROCKIES: Colorado agreed to terms with right-hander Shawn Chacon on a one-year contract worth $1.85 million.

DODGERS: The proposed sale of the franchise from News Corp. to Boston real estate developer Frank McCourt will be put to a vote for approval by baseball owners Thursday during a conference call.

• The Dodgers signed pitcher Jose Lima and infielder Jose Hernandez to minor-league contracts and invited them to their major-league spring training camp.

MARLINS: Ivan Rodriguez rejoined the Marlins for a day, going with the team to the White House on Friday to celebrate Florida's World Series title.

The 10-time All-Star catcher, who became a free agent after the six-game win over the New York Yankees, rejected a $24 million, three-year offer from the Marlins. Detroit has offered a $40 million, four-year deal and his agent, Scott Boras, said he's still considering proposals from several teams.

DEVIL RAYS: Tampa Bay right-hander Rob Bell, a one-time Red, cleared waivers and was sent outright to Triple-A Durham.

BLATNIK DIES: John Blatnik, an outfielder who played three seasons in the majors with the Philadelphia Phillies and St. Louis Cardinals, has died. He was 82.