Japan's Softbank Hawks announce that they have officially signed Daisuke Matsuzaka.

According to the Japan Times Daisuke Matsuzaka has agreed to a contract with the Fukuoka Softbank Hawks, who are the reigning Japanese League champions.

Daisuke Matsuzaka is on the verge of returning to play in Japan next season.

 Daisuke Matsuzaka returned to action Thursday against the Nationals, making his first appearance since Aug. 30. He permitted one hit and three walks while striking out one over three scoreless innings of work.