http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/mariners/2008199006_maribuild240.html

Nero added that, while there is an opt-out clause following 2009, specific language in the contract limits the reasons why Johjima could leave.

“It has to do with something catastrophic happening to a member of his family, that would force him to return to Japan,” Nero said, declining to get any more specific. “Not him bailing because he’s unhappy.”

In any event, he added, Johjima is happy in Seattle, gets along with teammates and wants to remain with the ballclub.

The Mariners make it a policy to refuse to discuss any aspects of player contracts with the media.

But a club official with knowledge of the situation, asked about the existence of an “opt-out” clause, shrugged and said: “That’s up to Kenji. It’s not our decision.”

Nero insists the extension is “a fully guaranteed three-year deal.”

But that wouldn’t appear to preclude a negotiation toward a financial settlement between the sides if Johjima, increasingly squeezed for playing time by Jeff Clement and Rob Johnson — with minor-leaguer Adam Moore rising quickly — decides he’d rather play every day back in Japan. Johjima wouldn’t comment on what he’d do if he again finds himself on the bench next year.

“Ask me that next year if the situation comes up,” he said, through interpreter Antony Suzuki. “Then, I’ll give you my answer.”

That being said, I think Johjima might leave because it’s a “face” thing- he’d rather play and collect a smaller paycheck in Japan than sit and collect a bigger paycheck in the US.