Three-Year Deal for Matsui

Kazuo Matsui arrived in New York on Monday to take a physical and complete his $20.1-million, three-year contract with the Mets.

The Japanese star shortstop announced his decision to accept the Met offer during a news conference at Narita International Airport, then boarded a plane for the trip to New York.

He was welcomed at John F. Kennedy International Airport by Met Chief Operating Officer Jeff Wilpon and General Manager Jim Duquette.

Although New York hasn’t formally acknowledged the signing, Met spokesman Jay Horwitz said Matsui will have a physical today and the team will have a news conference Wednesday.

In addition to his salary, Matsui’s contract includes a no-trade clause and gives him the right to become a free agent after the 2006 season, a baseball source told Associated Press.

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Free-agent second baseman Todd Walker is among the players the Dodgers are considering to fill their hole at first base.

General Manager Dan Evans recently spoke with Walker’s agents, Alan Meersand and Brian Carlin, about whether the seven-year veteran would move to first.

“He definitely would be interested,” Meersand said. “Four other teams are targeting Todd as a first baseman/third baseman and a backup second baseman, and I had a very pleasant conversation with Dan.”

A career .290 hitter, Walker batted .283 with 13 home runs, 38 doubles and 85 runs batted in for the Boston Red Sox last season. Boston did not offer Walker arbitration, so the Dodgers would not have to give up draft compensation if they sign him.

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The Philadelphia Phillies want Kevin Millwood back for 2004. They’re not ready to commit beyond one year.

Phillie General Manager Ed Wade made it clear he didn’t offer salary arbitration to Millwood just to ensure the team would get an amateur draft pick as compensation if the right-hander signed elsewhere.

“We absolutely hope Kevin comes back and pitches for us in 2004,” Wade said. “We’re prepared to begin discussion on a one-year contract.”

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Reliever Steve Reed agreed to a one-year contract with Colorado that guarantees him $625,000.... Eduardo Perez agreed to a two-year, $1.7-million contract with Tampa Bay.... Right-hander Kerry Ligtenberg and Toronto agreed to a $4.5-million, two-year contract.... Texas claimed outfielder Jason Tyner off waivers from Tampa Bay.