Cole, who turns 30 in January, elected free agency after being outrighted off the 40-man roster by the Blue Jays back in September. He's actually pitched fairly well in recent opportunities in the majors, including a 1.13 ERA over six appearances this past season. Still, he'll take his chances in Japan rather than wait on the lockout to be settled. 

Cole was limited to just six relief appearances with the Blue Jays this season due to injury. The 29-year-old righty should be able to land a minor-league deal with an invite to spring training this offseason.

Cole has been outrighted before, so he can elect free agency if he wants. He had been out since early June with neck and oblique injuries.

Cole has given the Blue Jays all of eight innings this year because of injuries. The right-hander was transferred to the 60-day injured list back in June, but he's been eligible to come off that list for quite some time. He could help the Blue Jays in the middle innings in September.