Bryan LaHair will go to Japan for the 2013 season. The 2012 National League All-Star has signed a contract worth $4.5 million to play the next two seasons for the Softbank Hawks.
LaHair was designated for assignment by the Cubs earlier this week and would have been in line for a contract worth the league minimum had he opted to remain in the US.
In 2012 LaHair got off to a strong start while playing first base for the Cubs. He eventually was selected to the All-Star team but faded in the second half. The Cubs eventually promoted prospect Anthony Rizzo and LaHair found himself on the bench as the season came to an end.
LaHair finished with a .259/.334/.450 line while hitting 16 home runs and driving in 40 RBI.
