BOSTON (AP) – The Boston Red Sox signed outfielder Gabe Kapler, who was released by his Japanese team, and placed him on the 15-day disabled list with a lower back strain.

Kapler was a backup outfielder with the Red Sox in 2004. He was the first player to leave the World Series champions when he signed a one-year contract with the Yomiuri Giants last November, taking more money and the chance to play every day.

But he struggled in Japan and re-signed with Boston on Friday night. Kapler hit .272 for Boston last season, with six home runs.