LOS ANGELES (Ticker) - The Los Angeles Dodgers are looking overseas for some help replacing Adrian Beltre.
The Dodgers and veteran third baseman Norihiro Nakamura came to terms on a contract that will give the Japanese slugger a chance to make the roster.
The 31-year-old Nakamura, who has spent the last 12 years in Japan's Pacific League, hit just .247 with 19 homers in an injury-plagued 2004 season.
In December 2002, the New York Mets thought they had a deal with the slugger, who backed out at the last instant.
Beltre had a breakout 2004 season, leading the major leagues with 48 homers. But he opted to leave for Seattle via free agency and Los Angeles signed free-swinging Jose Valentin as a potential replacement.
Nakamura, who also has won a series of awards for defensive excellence, is expected to compete with prospect Antonio Perez and veteran Olmedo Saenz for a backup role. Saenz and Nakamura also could see time as part of a platoon at first base with Hee-Seop Choi.