The Nationals made their bullpen even better on Tuesday afternoon, agreeing to sign reliever Rafael Soriano to a two-year, $28 million contract, pending a physical, according to baseball sources. The deal also includes a $14 million option for 2015 that vests if Soriano finishes 120 games over the next two years.
Danks says shoulder ‘feels great’ in mound sessions
When asked about his outlook for the 2013 season during the months of October, November and December, John Danks would use the words “cautiously optimistic” as part of his response.
Astros’ hurlers excited to work with Clemens
Many of them have crossed paths with Roger Clemens in the past, whether it was at an event honoring the Astros’ 50th anniversary last year or in previous years at a Minor League ballpark when the Rocket was stopping in to check on his son Koby.
Scouts gear up for busy week in Dominican Republic
Starting Wednesday, Major League Baseball will kick off a busy week in the Dominican Republic with the second annual MLB Prospect League international showcase for players eligible to sign on July 2.
Mets add five non-roster players to big league camp
The Mets on Monday announced they have invited catcher Juan Centeno, infielder Josh Satin, outfielder Matt den Dekker and right-handed pitchers Rafael Montero and Cory Mazzoni to Major League Spring Training.
Gallardo, Maldonado slated to play in Classic
Mexican-born Brewers right-hander Yovani Gallardo and catcher Martin Maldonado of Puerto Rico are expected to appear later this week on their homelands’ preliminary rosters for the World Baseball Classic, separate sources said.
Karstens said to be returning to Pittsburgh
The Pittsburgh Pirates have reportedly agreed to bring back veteran right-hander Jeff Karstens, whom the club had non-tendered two months ago.
Dodgers sign four young Dominican players
Signed were outfielders Deivy Castillo and Ariel Sandoval; shortstop Ravel Hernandez; and right-handed pitcher Miguel Urena. Each player is 17 years old.
Nothing middling about Tribe’s key infield prospects
When Francisco Lindor wandered through the visitors’ clubhouse at Progressive Field on Monday afternoon, making his way to his temporary locker, a group of reporters quickly surrounded the prospect and peppered him with questions.
D-backs extend closer Putz through 2014
The D-backs have agreed to a one-year contract extension with J.J. Putz, keeping the closer in Arizona through the 2014 season.
Izturis, Hamilton among Reds’ spring invitees
The Reds on Monday revealed that they have invited 15 players to Spring Training as non-roster players.
Perez, Pestano to be in Team USA’s Classic ‘pen
The back end of Team USA’s bullpen will have a distinct Cleveland feel to it during the upcoming World Baseball Classic.
A’s, Kottaras avoid arbitration with one-year deal
The A’s on Monday agreed to terms with George Kottaras on a one-year contract for the 2013 season to avoid arbitration.
Clemens to be more involved with Astros in 2013
Seven-time Cy Young Award winner Roger Clemens will be uniform as an instructor for the Astros at Spring Training next month, and he’ll continue to be involved throughout the regular season.
Blackburn to miss start of season after wrist surgery
Right-hander Nick Blackburn will miss the start of the season, as he’s set to undergo arthroscopic surgery on his right wrist on Wednesday at the Mayo Clinic, and will be in a cast for six weeks.
Vogelsong to join Team USA for 2013 Classic
Just two years ago, Ryan Vogelsong was a non-roster invitee to the Giants’ Spring Training camp. Now, the right-hander has committed to play for the United States in the World Baseball Classic.
Keppinger’s versatility with bat ideal for White Sox
Jeff Keppinger’s abilities with the bat make him the perfect second hitter, but that skill set also should give manager Robin Ventura a little room to work if he decides to go against the expected.