Iwamura moved from the Yakult Swallows to Tampa Bay (then the Devil Rays) in 2007 via the so-called posting system, which enables Japanese players to play in the major leagues when a team wins the negotiating rights with the highest bid.

"I appreciate the fact that they (the Pirates) gave me a high evaluation. I am happy and excited to play with them. I had been anxious about what would happen next year. I am relieved that it was decided at this early stage," Iwamura said.

Iwamura switched from third to second base in his second year in the majors and batted .274 with six homers and 48 RBIs, helping lead his team to the AL championship title and a spot in the World Series.

This season, Iwamura went on the disabled list for an extended period after injuring his left knee when he was taken out on a hard slide at second base by Chris Coghlan in a game against the Florida Marlins on May 24.

He returned after undergoing surgery for the last month of the season and finished with a .290 batting average with one home run and 22 RBIs. It was the last year of Iwamura's contract with the Rays, which opted out of an option for his services in 2010.

Iwamura has hit 14 homers with 104 RBIs and a .281 batting average in 344 games in three years in the majors.

The Pittsburgh Pirates have a long tradition in the National League and are well-known as the club of Roberto Clemente, who reached 3,000 hits before he died in a plane crash in 1972.

Barry Bonds, who owns the single-season record for the most home runs, also played for the Pirates.

"I know about Clemente and know that this club has a long history. I like the pirates' logo as well. It's a young team but I think we can do well with the addition of my power. I will aim to make the postseason in Pittsburgh," Iwamura said.