When the Toronto Blue Jays declined its $1 million US option on fan favourite Munenori Kawasaki in November, it appeared as though the infielder had given his final bow with the team.

But Tuesday, the Jays announced that the team has signed the Japanese native to a one-year minor league contract with an invitation to attend spring training.  

The 32-year-old served as the team's everyday shortstop after Jose Reyes severely sprained his ankle in April and spent two-and-a-half months on the disabled list.

Kawasaki was featured frequently on highlight reels last season because of his infectious energy, eccentric quotes, dance moves and trademark bows to the crowd after curtain calls. 

In 96 games the left-handed batter hit .229 with a .326 on-base percentage, collecting one home run and 24 runs batted in.