The Seattle PI reports that GM Bill Bavasi and manager John McLaren are hoping to bring back more than just electronics when they return from their current Japanese shopping trip. They also hoping to wrap up pitcher Hiroki Kuroda. The club already has a strong Japanese contingent including catcher Kenji Johjima, outfielder Ichiro Suzuki and owner Hiroshi Yamauchi, the former Nintendo chief so Kuroda should feel right at home if he makes the move to Seattle.

Other clubs rumored to be interested in Kuroda include the Rangers, Dodgers, Cubs, Phillies and Yankees.