Japanese players headed to America in 2004?

Kazuo Matsui is pretty determined to challenge the MLB after the 2003 season. I have also heard about Ohzuka, who just changed teams from Kintetsu to Chuunichi, has the will to challenge the MLB in 2004. He wanted to go this year through the posting system, however no teams placed bid on him because of the salary cap. Teams that wanted him can't afford him, and teams that can afford him don't even care about him. Pretty sad dude.

There are rumors that Uehara from Yomiuri Giants might challenge MLB through posting system in the future. Anaheim Angels showed a lot of interest in him when he was in college, so that is really possible.

I have also heard that Kimiyasu Kudoh wants to challenge MLB after this year, but I doubt that would happen. After all, he is almost 40 years old and has injury problems. He's still a good pitcher, but I do not think he can adjust to the environment.

Iguchi from the Daiei Hawks might also seek a contract with a Major League team. I think he has the potential to get a contract because he is a mid-long range hitter, and has the speed to survive in the league. However, I am more worried about his fielding. I do not have a good image about his fielding, but his ability as a batter can not be under rated.

That is about all the players I know that might seek an MLB contract for the 2004 season.

This question might get complicated by the new-found fiscal restraint of the majority of MLB owners. Top players like Kazuo Matsui would attract lucrative contracts, but why would a team spend a lot for a player without a large upside (such as Kudo)?

The only players in Japan with that kind of upside are stars and young pitchers, but young pitchers aren't available.