The Padres signed Japanese hurler Kazuhisa Makita to a two-year contract, the Padres announced Saturday. 
Makita has pitched the past seven seasons for the Saitama Seibu Lions of the Japan Pacific League. A submarine-style right-handed pitcher, Makita went 53-49 with a 2.83 ERA in 921 1/3 innings during his time with the Lions.
The 33-year-old began his professional career as a starter, but he transitioned to a full-time reliever in 2016 and excelled in that role. Makita, whose deal is worth around $4 million according to MLB Network insider Jon Heyman, went 7-1 with a 1.60 ERA in 78 2/3 innings out of the bullpen in 2016 before going 3-3 with a 2.30 ERA in 62 2/3 frames last season. The Padres did not confirm the dollar value of the contract.
Makita's signing comes shortly after the Padres brought back right-hander Craig Stammen on a two-year deal, giving the club a few solid right-handed relief options in 2018 and possibly '19 as well. San Diego also dealt infielder Yangervis Solarte to the Blue Jays for Minor League outfielder Edward Olivares and right-handed pitching prospect Jared Carkuff.