Padres finalize 2-year deal with reliever Joaquin Benoit

Expected to be teams' setup man

The Associated Press Posted: Dec 28, 2013 8:52 PM ET Last Updated: Dec 28, 2013 8:52 PM ET

The San Diego Padres and reliever Joaquin Benoit have completed a $15.5 million US, two-year contract that includes a vesting option for 2016.

The team announced the move Saturday. The sides agreed to the deal on Dec. 18, pending a physical.

Benoit, who turns 37 in July, is expected to replace setup man Luke Gregerson, who was traded to Oakland for outfielder Seth Smith.

In his first season as the Detroit Tigers' closer, Benoit had 24 saves in 26 chances this year. But in Game 2 of the AL championship series, he allowed a tying grand slam by Boston's David Ortiz that was a turning point in the series.

To make room for Benoit on the 40-man roster, the Padres designated minor league right-hander Adys Portillo for assignment.

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Dodgers' Yasiel Puig arrested for reckless driving

Outfielder charged 2nd time this year

The Associated Press Posted: Dec 28, 2013 9:18 PM ET Last Updated: Dec 28, 2013 9:18 PM ET

Los Angeles Dodgers outfielder Yasiel Puig was arrested on a reckless driving charge for the second time this year after officers clocked him going 110 mph in a 70 mph zone.

A news release from the Florida Highway Patrol said a white Mercedes driven by the 23-year-old Cuban defector was pulled over around 9:30 a.m. Saturday.

Authorities said Puig was arrested and charged with reckless driving and taken to the Collier County Jail for processing. Puig lives in the Miami area during the off-season.

Dodgers spokesman Joe Jareck declined to comment on Puig's latest arrest.

In April, when he was still in the minors, Puig was charged with reckless driving and speeding after Chattanooga, Tenn., police clocked him going 97 mph in a 50 mph zone. The charges were dismissed in November after Puig completed community service in Los Angeles.

Puig was an instant sensation with the Dodgers last season, batting .319 with 19 home runs and 42 RBIs. He helped them reach the NL championship series, where they lost to St. Louis, and was runner-up for the Rookie of the Year award.

Puig signed a $42 million, seven-year contract in June 2012, a record for a Cuban defector. He received a $12 million signing bonus and made $2 million last season.

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Padres finalize 2-year deal with reliever Joaquin Benoit

Expected to be teams' setup man

The Associated Press Posted: Dec 28, 2013 8:52 PM ET Last Updated: Dec 28, 2013 8:52 PM ET

The San Diego Padres and reliever Joaquin Benoit have completed a $15.5 million US, two-year contract that includes a vesting option for 2016.

The team announced the move Saturday. The sides agreed to the deal on Dec. 18, pending a physical.

Benoit, who turns 37 in July, is expected to replace setup man Luke Gregerson, who was traded to Oakland for outfielder Seth Smith.

In his first season as the Detroit Tigers' closer, Benoit had 24 saves in 26 chances this year. But in Game 2 of the AL championship series, he allowed a tying grand slam by Boston's David Ortiz that was a turning point in the series.

To make room for Benoit on the 40-man roster, the Padres designated minor league right-hander Adys Portillo for assignment.

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Dodgers' Yasiel Puig arrested for reckless driving

Outfielder charged 2nd time this year

The Associated Press Posted: Dec 28, 2013 9:18 PM ET Last Updated: Dec 28, 2013 9:18 PM ET

Los Angeles Dodgers outfielder Yasiel Puig was arrested on a reckless driving charge for the second time this year after officers clocked him going 110 mph in a 70 mph zone.

A news release from the Florida Highway Patrol said a white Mercedes driven by the 23-year-old Cuban defector was pulled over around 9:30 a.m. Saturday.

Authorities said Puig was arrested and charged with reckless driving and taken to the Collier County Jail for processing. Puig lives in the Miami area during the off-season.

Dodgers spokesman Joe Jareck declined to comment on Puig's latest arrest.

In April, when he was still in the minors, Puig was charged with reckless driving and speeding after Chattanooga, Tenn., police clocked him going 97 mph in a 50 mph zone. The charges were dismissed in November after Puig completed community service in Los Angeles.

Puig was an instant sensation with the Dodgers last season, batting .319 with 19 home runs and 42 RBIs. He helped them reach the NL championship series, where they lost to St. Louis, and was runner-up for the Rookie of the Year award.

Puig signed a $42 million, seven-year contract in June 2012, a record for a Cuban defector. He received a $12 million signing bonus and made $2 million last season.

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Padres finalize 2-year deal with reliever Joaquin Benoit

Expected to be teams' setup man

The Associated Press Posted: Dec 28, 2013 8:52 PM ET Last Updated: Dec 28, 2013 8:52 PM ET

The San Diego Padres and reliever Joaquin Benoit have completed a $15.5 million US, two-year contract that includes a vesting option for 2016.

The team announced the move Saturday. The sides agreed to the deal on Dec. 18, pending a physical.

Benoit, who turns 37 in July, is expected to replace setup man Luke Gregerson, who was traded to Oakland for outfielder Seth Smith.

In his first season as the Detroit Tigers' closer, Benoit had 24 saves in 26 chances this year. But in Game 2 of the AL championship series, he allowed a tying grand slam by Boston's David Ortiz that was a turning point in the series.

To make room for Benoit on the 40-man roster, the Padres designated minor league right-hander Adys Portillo for assignment.

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Dodgers' Yasiel Puig arrested for reckless driving

Outfielder charged 2nd time this year

The Associated Press Posted: Dec 28, 2013 9:18 PM ET Last Updated: Dec 28, 2013 9:18 PM ET

Los Angeles Dodgers outfielder Yasiel Puig was arrested on a reckless driving charge for the second time this year after officers clocked him going 110 mph in a 70 mph zone.

A news release from the Florida Highway Patrol said a white Mercedes driven by the 23-year-old Cuban defector was pulled over around 9:30 a.m. Saturday.

Authorities said Puig was arrested and charged with reckless driving and taken to the Collier County Jail for processing. Puig lives in the Miami area during the off-season.

Dodgers spokesman Joe Jareck declined to comment on Puig's latest arrest.

In April, when he was still in the minors, Puig was charged with reckless driving and speeding after Chattanooga, Tenn., police clocked him going 97 mph in a 50 mph zone. The charges were dismissed in November after Puig completed community service in Los Angeles.

Puig was an instant sensation with the Dodgers last season, batting .319 with 19 home runs and 42 RBIs. He helped them reach the NL championship series, where they lost to St. Louis, and was runner-up for the Rookie of the Year award.

Puig signed a $42 million, seven-year contract in June 2012, a record for a Cuban defector. He received a $12 million signing bonus and made $2 million last season.

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Shin-Soo Choo officially joins Rangers

Shin-Soo Choo will be the leadoff hitter for the Texas Rangers in an offence they feel they have successfully remade this off-season.

Choo was formally introduced Friday, nearly a week after agreeing to a $130 million US, seven-year deal.

"It was a perfect fit," general manager Jon Daniels said. "His skill set, his personality, his personal goals and desires really lineup up perfectly with ours and what our club needed. ... He's really been one of the most productive offensive players in the game for a period of time now."

The 31-year-old South Korean outfielder has a .288 career average and .389 on-base percentage in 853 major league games for Seattle (2005-06), Cleveland (2006-12) and Cincinnati (2013).

Choo has at least 20 homers and 20 stolen bases three times, including last season when he started 150 games in centre field and was the primary leadoff hitter for the Reds in his only year there.

With numerous teams interested during free agency, Choo said he was looking for a winning team and somewhere his wife and three young children would be comfortable.

"The Texas Rangers were the best fit for me," Choo said. "It was very easy to pick."

Agent Scott Boras called it a "tremendous baseball fit" for both sides.

Texas last month acquired five-time All-Star first baseman Prince Fielder from Detroit in a trade for second baseman Ian Kinsler.

Only Mike Trout (564) and Miguel Cabrera (562) have reached base more than last two seasons than Choo (556) and Fielder (542).

"We talked early on about our desire to remake our offence, both in personnel, but also equally importantly in style," Daniels said. "We feel very good about what we've been able to accomplish to this point."

Texas missed the playoffs for the first time in four years and scored only 730 runs, its fewest in a non-strike season since 1992.

Choo was presented jersey No. 17, which had been worn by free-agent slugger Nelson Cruz, the 2011 AL championship series MVP who hit 27 home runs with 76 RBIs in 109 games for Texas last season. Cruz was suspended 50 games after Major League Baseball's investigation into a Florida clinic accused of distributing banned performance-enhancing drugs, but returned to play in the AL wild-card tiebreaker game the Rangers lost.

The addition of Choo, whose salary will average about $18.6 million US per season, also lessens the likelihood of Texas being serious bidders for Japanese star pitcher Masahiro Tanaka.

Rangers co-owner Bob Simpson said the team is 'comfortable where we are in terms of financial commitment " and that "Tanaka would be a tough thing."

The Texas payroll is expected to be over $130 million US next season. When the ownership group took over during the 2010 season, the same year the Rangers went to the first of consecutive World Series, the payroll was less than $60 million US.

Choo's deal is the third-richest this off-season, behind only Robinson Cano ($240 million US, 10 years from Seattle) and Jacoby Ellsbury ($153 million, seven years from New York Yankees). Choo will make $14 million US in 2014 and 2015, $20 million from 2016-18, and $21 million the last two years of the deal. There is also a limited no-trade clause and award bonuses, the largest being $250,000 US for being selected AL MVP.

Rangers manager Ron Washington plans to play Choo in left field and utilize him at the top of the batting order. He had a .423 OBP with Cincinnati and scored 107 runs last season.

"He'll be the kind of guy to come back to the dugout and let everyone know exactly what that pitcher is doing. ... That's old-school baseball right there," Washington said. "He's a young man bringing old-school values, and that's what I like the most."

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Angels, Raul Ibanez agree to 1-year deal

Veteran outfielder 7 hits shy of 2,000 hits

The Associated Press Posted: Dec 27, 2013 6:58 PM ET Last Updated: Dec 27, 2013 7:27 PM ET

Veteran outfielder Raul Ibanez has agreed to a one-year deal with the Los Angeles Angels.

The club announced the deal Friday.

The 41-year-old Ibanez batted .242 with 29 homers and 65 RBIs for the Seattle Mariners last year. He hit his final homer of the season at Angel Stadium on Sept. 21, tying Ted Williams' record for the most homers by a 40-and-over player.

Ibanez has 300 career homers and is seven hits shy of becoming the 18th active major leaguer with 2,000 hits. He played his first major league game with Seattle in 1996, also making stops with the Royals, Phillies and Yankees between three stints with the Mariners.

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Posting period for Masahiro Tanaka begins

The bidding for Japanese star pitcher Masahiro Tanaka has begun.

All 30 major league teams were notified that the 30-day period to sign the star 25-year-old right-hander began at 8 a.m. ET Thursday, according to MLB spokesman Michael Teevan. Clubs have until 5 p.m. on Jan. 24 to attempt to reach an agreement with the ace.

If Tanaka and a major league team come to terms, that franchise is required to pay his Japanese club, the Rakuten Eagles, a posting fee, now capped at $20 million US under a deal reached two weeks ago between MLB and Nippon Professional Baseball. Under the old, no-limit system, the Texas Rangers paid over $50 million for the right to negotiate with Yu Darvish before the 2012 season.

Tanaka will be represented by Excel Sports Management during the process. Other Excel Sports clients include Dodgers two-time Cy Young Award winner Clayton Kershaw and Yankees shortstop Derek Jeter.

Rakuten rejected the new posting system but was outvoted in balloting by Japan's 12 teams. The Japan Series champion then said it was going to retain Tanaka, whose rights it holds for two more seasons.

Eagles President Yozo Tachibana, however, changed course Wednesday, saying that Tanaka deserved a chance to play in the majors. Tachibana cited Tanaka's 24-0 regular-season record with a 1.27 ERA and his "outstanding contribution to the team" over seven seasons as reasons for choosing to post the player.

A day after throwing a complete game in a Game 6 loss in the Japan Series, Tanaka saved the clincher, bringing the first league championship to the team based in Sendai, which is still recovering from the devastation wrought by the 2011 earthquake and tsunami.

Several major league teams argued that under the system established in 1998, only the richest franchises could afford to bid on the right to sign star Japanese players still under club control. The new system levels the process — and also means the player could get a contract around $100 million.

The New York Yankees are among several teams in need of top-line starting pitching.

Under the rules of the three-year agreement, starting with the day after a player is posted and continuing for 30 days, any team willing to pay the fee may attempt to sign the player. A club pays the posting fee only if it signs the player, and the fee is then submitted in installments, with the timing dependent on the amount.

A player who is not signed may not be posted again until the following Nov. 1.

During the previous agreement, Boston obtained Daisake Matsuzaka from the Seibu Lions before the 2007 season for $51,111,111.11 and agreed to a $52 million, six-year contract. Texas got Darvish from the Hokkaido Nippon Ham Fighters before the 2012 season for $51,703,411 and gave him a $56 million, six-year deal. Darvish finished second in this year's AL Cy Young Award voting.

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Shin-Soo Choo passes physical with Rangers: report

Shin-Soo Choo passed his physical with the Texas Rangers, clearing the way for the completion of the outfielder's $130 million, seven-year deal.

A person familiar with the situation told The Associated Press on Thursday night that Choo passed his physical and would be formally introduced in Texas on Friday. The person spoke on condition of anonymity because there was no official announcement from the team.

The Rangers scheduled a press conference Friday afternoon. The said only that it was to "announce a major free agent signing" and provided no other details.

Choo's deal, worth about $18.6 million per season, is the third-highest this off-season. The deal was agreed upon last weekend, but was pending the completion of the physical.

Second baseman Robinson Cano got $240 million US over 10 years from Seattle and outfielder Jacoby Ellsbury, like Choo, a client of agent Scott Boras, signed a $153 million US, seven-year contract with the New York Yankees.

Choo started 150 games in centre field and had a .423 on-base percentage last season for Cincinnati in his only year with the Reds. He hit .285 with 21 homers and 20 stolen bases and scored 107 runs as their primary leadoff hitter.

The Rangers will likely use Choo in left field because they have Leonys Martin in centre and Alex Rios in right. And Choo could be their leadoff hitter.

The deal comes a month after the Rangers acquired five-time All-Star first baseman Prince Fielder in a trade with Detroit for second baseman Ian Kinsler, their primary leadoff hitter last season.

Both Fielder and Choo will be under contract through the 2020 season.

The Rangers, who won their only AL pennants in 2010 and 2011, missed the playoffs for the first time in four years. Texas scored only 730 runs, its fewest in a non-strike season since 1992.

Choo's deal calls for salaries of $14 million US in 2014 and 2015, $21 million in 2016 and 2017, and $20 million in each of the last three years of the deal. There are also performance bonuses and a limited no-trade clause.

Choo has a .288 career batting average and .389 OBP with 104 home runs and 427 RBIs in 853 major league games for Seattle (2005-06), Cleveland (2006-12) and Cincinnati. The 31-year-old South Korean had at least 20 homers and 20 stolen bases three times, including last season.

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Munenori Kawasaki back with Blue Jays on minor league deal

Fan favourite batted .229 with 24 RBIs in 2013

By Michael Shulman, CBC Sports Posted: Dec 24, 2013 1:56 PM ET Last Updated: Dec 24, 2013 7:22 PM ET

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. 

Comments on this story are pre-moderated. Before they appear comments are reviewed by moderators to ensure they meet our submission guidelines. Comments are welcome while open. We reserve the right to close comments at any time.

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Note: The CBC does not necessarily endorse any of the views posted. By submitting your comments, you acknowledge that CBC has the right to reproduce, broadcast and publicize those comments or any part thereof in any manner whatsoever. Please note that comments are moderated and published according to our submission guidelines.

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Rakuten allows Tanaka to pursue MLB career

Pitcher Masahiro Tanaka is set to move to the majors next season after his Japanese team Rakuten Eagles announced Wednesday it was prepared to let him leave, reversing its earlier rejection.

Rakuten Eagles president Yozo Tachibana told a news conference that the team has decided to release him through the posting system, paving the way for his departure. Tachibana said Tanaka's outstanding performance over the past seven years, including this season, meant he deserved to be allowed to move to the U.S.

Tanaka, a 25-year-old right-hander, went 24-0 with a 1.27 ERA with the Eagles during the regular season and sought a move to the majors. But he has two years remaining on his contract and Rakuten was under no obligation to release him.

"I'm grateful to the team for allowing me to try. Now I've made a first step," he said. "I hope I would receive offers from as many teams as possible so I have a wider option."

The New York Yankees are considered the leading candidates to sign Tanaka, though the capping of the posting fee at $20 million meant many other teams could also afford to make offers.

The Eagles had rejected the new posting system but it was passed by a vote of Japan's professional teams. Following that decision, Rakuten had initially said they want to retain Tanaka, before Wednesday's change of heart.

Tachibana said the team took into consideration Tanaka's "outstanding contribution to the team" since he joined the Eagles seven years ago. Tanaka's perfect 24-0 record set a new mark in the history of Japanese professional baseball and brought a first league championship to the team based in Sendai, which is still recovering from the devastation wrought by the 2011 earthquake and tsunami.

For 30 days from the time a player is posted, any MLB team can attempt to sign the player. It pays the posting fee only if it signs the player. Under the new rules, a Japanese club may make players available between Nov. 1 and Feb. 1. A player who is not signed may not be posted again until the following Nov. 1.

Tachibana, the Rakuten president, said his team is happy to retain Tanaka if he does not reach an agreement with an MLB team.

The new posting system was negotiated after some MLB teams objected that only the richest clubs could afford to bid on top Japanese players.

Under the previous agreement, which began in 1998 and ran through last off-season, there was no cap on bidding and only the highest bidder could negotiate with the player.

Boston obtained pitcher Daisuke Matsuzaka from the Seibu Lions before the 2007 season for $51,111,111.11, and agreed to a $52 million, six-year contract. Texas got pitcher Yu Darvish from the Hokkaido Nippon Ham Fighters before the 2012 season for $51,703,411 and gave him a $56 million, six-year deal.

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Rakuten allows Tanaka to pursue MLB career

Pitcher Masahiro Tanaka is set to move to the majors next season after his Japanese team Rakuten Eagles announced Wednesday it was prepared to let him leave, reversing its earlier rejection.

Rakuten Eagles president Yozo Tachibana told a news conference that the team has decided to release him through the posting system, paving the way for his departure. Tachibana said Tanaka's outstanding performance over the past seven years, including this season, meant he deserved to be allowed to move to the U.S.

Tanaka, a 25-year-old right-hander, went 24-0 with a 1.27 ERA with the Eagles during the regular season and sought a move to the majors. But he has two years remaining on his contract and Rakuten was under no obligation to release him.

"I'm grateful to the team for allowing me to try. Now I've made a first step," he said. "I hope I would receive offers from as many teams as possible so I have a wider option."

The New York Yankees are considered the leading candidates to sign Tanaka, though the capping of the posting fee at $20 million meant many other teams could also afford to make offers.

The Eagles had rejected the new posting system but it was passed by a vote of Japan's professional teams. Following that decision, Rakuten had initially said they want to retain Tanaka, before Wednesday's change of heart.

Tachibana said the team took into consideration Tanaka's "outstanding contribution to the team" since he joined the Eagles seven years ago. Tanaka's perfect 24-0 record set a new mark in the history of Japanese professional baseball and brought a first league championship to the team based in Sendai, which is still recovering from the devastation wrought by the 2011 earthquake and tsunami.

For 30 days from the time a player is posted, any MLB team can attempt to sign the player. It pays the posting fee only if it signs the player. Under the new rules, a Japanese club may make players available between Nov. 1 and Feb. 1. A player who is not signed may not be posted again until the following Nov. 1.

Tachibana, the Rakuten president, said his team is happy to retain Tanaka if he does not reach an agreement with an MLB team.

The new posting system was negotiated after some MLB teams objected that only the richest clubs could afford to bid on top Japanese players.

Under the previous agreement, which began in 1998 and ran through last off-season, there was no cap on bidding and only the highest bidder could negotiate with the player.

Boston obtained pitcher Daisuke Matsuzaka from the Seibu Lions before the 2007 season for $51,111,111.11, and agreed to a $52 million, six-year contract. Texas got pitcher Yu Darvish from the Hokkaido Nippon Ham Fighters before the 2012 season for $51,703,411 and gave him a $56 million, six-year deal.

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Munenori Kawasaki back with Blue Jays on minor league deal

Fan favourite batted .229 with 24 RBIs in 2013

By Michael Shulman, CBC Sports Posted: Dec 24, 2013 1:56 PM ET Last Updated: Dec 24, 2013 7:22 PM ET

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. 

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Shin-Soo Choo agrees to 7-year deal with Rangers: report

The Rangers have made another Texas-sized deal to improve their offence.

Free agent outfielder Shin-Soo Choo agreed to a $130 million US, seven-year contract with the Rangers, a person familiar with the deal told The Associated Press on Saturday.

The person spoke on condition of anonymity because there was no official announcement about the deal that is pending a physical for Choo. That person said the physical is expected to be done before Christmas, and that any formal introduction in Texas likely wouldn't come until after the holiday Wednesday.

The deal came a month after the Rangers acquired five-time All-Star first baseman Prince Fielder in a trade with Detroit for second baseman Ian Kinsler, their primary leadoff hitter.

Texas now gets the best offensive player left in free agency, with both additions to be under contract through the 2020 season.

Choo's deal, worth about $18.6 million per season, is the third-highest this off-season. Second baseman Robinson Cano got $240 million over 10 years from Seattle and outfielder Jacoby Ellsbury, like Choo, a client of agent Scott Boras, signed a $153 million, seven-year contract with the New York Yankees.

Choo could be at the top or in the middle of the Texas lineup. He was Cincinnati's leadoff hitter for 143 games last season, when he had a .423 on-base percentage with 20 stolen bases and 21 home runs.

The Rangers missed the playoffs for the first time in four years, with 730 runs scored their fewest in a non-strike season since 1992. Texas, which went to its only two World Series in 2010 and 2011 and lost in the AL's first wildcard game in 2012, lost at home to Tampa Bay in a wild-card tiebreaker.

Choo's deal calls for salaries of $14 million in 2014 and 2015, $21 million in 2016 and 2017, and $20 million in each of the last three years of the deal. He can earn a bonus for finishing in the top five of the AL MVP balloting — from $250,000 as the winner to $50,000 for fifth place. He would get a $150,000 bonus for being a World Series MVP, and an additional $100,000 for being an AL championship series MVP or an All-Star, or for winning a Silver Slugger or Gold Glove award.

There will also be a limited no-trade clause, with Choo able each year to submit a list of 10 teams he can't be dealt to without his consent.

Fielder, a .286 career hitter, was only two seasons into his $214 million, nine-year contract with Detroit when he was traded to Texas. That deal includes $30 million going back to the Rangers, though the first payment of $4 million won't come until 2016, followed by $6 million in 2017 and 2018, and $7 million in 2019 and 2020.

Choo has a .288 career batting average and .389 OBP with 104 home runs and 427 RBIs in 853 major league games for Seattle (2005-06), Cleveland (2006-12) and Cincinnati. The 31-year-old South Korean had at least 20 homers and 20 stolen bases three times, including last season.

While Choo started 150 games for the Reds in centre field, he will likely play left field for Texas. The Rangers have Leonys Martin in centre and Alex Rios in right.

Choo's addition almost certainly closes the door on the possible return of slugger Nelson Cruz, who had 27 homers and 76 RBIs in his 109 games for Texas last season.

Cruz was suspended 50 games after Major League Baseball's investigation into a Florida clinic accused of distributing banned performance-enhancing drugs. The 2011 AL championship series MVP finished his suspension in time to play in the tiebreaker game against Tampa Bay.

Texas will lose its first-round pick by signing Choo, but would get a first-round pick back when Cruz, presumably, signs with another team.

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Blue Jays claim Brent Morel off waivers from White Sox

Reserve 3B hit .200 in 12 games for White Sox

The Associated Press Posted: Dec 23, 2013 4:41 PM ET Last Updated: Dec 23, 2013 4:43 PM ET

The Toronto Blue Jays have claimed third baseman Brent Morel off waivers from the Chicago White Sox roster.

Morel, 26, appeared in 12 games for the White Sox last season, batting .200.

He had .266 average with six home runs and 54 RBIs in 106 games for triple-A Charlotte.

A third-round selection by the White Sox in 2008, Morel has spent parts of four seasons in the majors, recording a .229 average in 194 games with 13 home runs and 54 runs batted in.

The Blue Jays now have 40 players on the 40-man roster.

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Kevin Youkilis agrees to 1-year deal with Rakuten in Japan

Kevin Youkilis is leaving the major leagues after an injury plagued season and heading to Japan.

The three-time All-Star has agreed to a one-year contract with the Rakuten Golden Eagles of Japan's Pacific League.

"They made it very apparent right from the start they were quite interested in Kevin being there," agent Joe Bick said Friday.

A 34-year-old first baseman and third baseman, Youkilis will have a $4 million base salary and can earn $1 million bonuses — including some based on walks, a provision not allowed in major league contracts.

After nine seasons with the Boston Red Sox, Youkilis signed a $12 million, one-year deal with the New York Yankees. But his back started to bother him in mid-April, and an epidural injection didn't improve a lumbar spine sprain.

Sidelined from April 27 to May 31, he went back on the DL on June 13, had surgery a week later to repair a herniated disk and didn't return. Youkilis hit just .219 with two homers and eight RBIs over 28 games and 105 at-bats.

"There's no reason to believe he's anything less than 100 per cent," Bick said. "Workouts are going normally."

Youkilis has a .281 average in 10 big league seasons with 150 homers and 618 RBIs, and he earned a World Series ring with the 2007 Red Sox.

At Rakuten, Youkilis may become teammates with star pitcher Masahiro Tanaka, who went 24-0 last season, While Tanaka wants to join the major leagues, Rakuten is reluctant to make him available in the new posting season, and the 25-year-old right-hander can't leave as a free agent until after the 2015 season.

"We were talking with eight or nine other clubs over here," Bick said. "In the final analysis, he said the right thing for my family and me is to go do this. It will be a wonderful life experience."

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Shin-Soo Choo agrees to 7-year deal with Rangers: report

The Rangers have made another Texas-sized deal to improve their offence.

Free agent outfielder Shin-Soo Choo agreed to a $130 million US, seven-year contract with the Rangers, a person familiar with the deal told The Associated Press on Saturday.

The person spoke on condition of anonymity because there was no official announcement about the deal that is pending a physical for Choo. That person said the physical is expected to be done before Christmas, and that any formal introduction in Texas likely wouldn't come until after the holiday Wednesday.

The deal came a month after the Rangers acquired five-time All-Star first baseman Prince Fielder in a trade with Detroit for second baseman Ian Kinsler, their primary leadoff hitter.

Texas now gets the best offensive player left in free agency, with both additions to be under contract through the 2020 season.

Choo's deal, worth about $18.6 million per season, is the third-highest this off-season. Second baseman Robinson Cano got $240 million over 10 years from Seattle and outfielder Jacoby Ellsbury, like Choo, a client of agent Scott Boras, signed a $153 million, seven-year contract with the New York Yankees.

Choo could be at the top or in the middle of the Texas lineup. He was Cincinnati's leadoff hitter for 143 games last season, when he had a .423 on-base percentage with 20 stolen bases and 21 home runs.

The Rangers missed the playoffs for the first time in four years, with 730 runs scored their fewest in a non-strike season since 1992. Texas, which went to its only two World Series in 2010 and 2011 and lost in the AL's first wildcard game in 2012, lost at home to Tampa Bay in a wild-card tiebreaker.

Choo's deal calls for salaries of $14 million in 2014 and 2015, $21 million in 2016 and 2017, and $20 million in each of the last three years of the deal. He can earn a bonus for finishing in the top five of the AL MVP balloting — from $250,000 as the winner to $50,000 for fifth place. He would get a $150,000 bonus for being a World Series MVP, and an additional $100,000 for being an AL championship series MVP or an All-Star, or for winning a Silver Slugger or Gold Glove award.

There will also be a limited no-trade clause, with Choo able each year to submit a list of 10 teams he can't be dealt to without his consent.

Fielder, a .286 career hitter, was only two seasons into his $214 million, nine-year contract with Detroit when he was traded to Texas. That deal includes $30 million going back to the Rangers, though the first payment of $4 million won't come until 2016, followed by $6 million in 2017 and 2018, and $7 million in 2019 and 2020.

Choo has a .288 career batting average and .389 OBP with 104 home runs and 427 RBIs in 853 major league games for Seattle (2005-06), Cleveland (2006-12) and Cincinnati. The 31-year-old South Korean had at least 20 homers and 20 stolen bases three times, including last season.

While Choo started 150 games for the Reds in centre field, he will likely play left field for Texas. The Rangers have Leonys Martin in centre and Alex Rios in right.

Choo's addition almost certainly closes the door on the possible return of slugger Nelson Cruz, who had 27 homers and 76 RBIs in his 109 games for Texas last season.

Cruz was suspended 50 games after Major League Baseball's investigation into a Florida clinic accused of distributing banned performance-enhancing drugs. The 2011 AL championship series MVP finished his suspension in time to play in the tiebreaker game against Tampa Bay.

Texas will lose its first-round pick by signing Choo, but would get a first-round pick back when Cruz, presumably, signs with another team.

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Kevin Youkilis agrees to 1-year deal with Rakuten in Japan

Kevin Youkilis is leaving the major leagues after an injury plagued season and heading to Japan.

The three-time All-Star has agreed to a one-year contract with the Rakuten Golden Eagles of Japan's Pacific League.

"They made it very apparent right from the start they were quite interested in Kevin being there," agent Joe Bick said Friday.

A 34-year-old first baseman and third baseman, Youkilis will have a $4 million base salary and can earn $1 million bonuses — including some based on walks, a provision not allowed in major league contracts.

After nine seasons with the Boston Red Sox, Youkilis signed a $12 million, one-year deal with the New York Yankees. But his back started to bother him in mid-April, and an epidural injection didn't improve a lumbar spine sprain.

Sidelined from April 27 to May 31, he went back on the DL on June 13, had surgery a week later to repair a herniated disk and didn't return. Youkilis hit just .219 with two homers and eight RBIs over 28 games and 105 at-bats.

"There's no reason to believe he's anything less than 100 per cent," Bick said. "Workouts are going normally."

Youkilis has a .281 average in 10 big league seasons with 150 homers and 618 RBIs, and he earned a World Series ring with the 2007 Red Sox.

At Rakuten, Youkilis may become teammates with star pitcher Masahiro Tanaka, who went 24-0 last season, While Tanaka wants to join the major leagues, Rakuten is reluctant to make him available in the new posting season, and the 25-year-old right-hander can't leave as a free agent until after the 2015 season.

"We were talking with eight or nine other clubs over here," Bick said. "In the final analysis, he said the right thing for my family and me is to go do this. It will be a wonderful life experience."

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Shin-Soo Choo agrees to 7-year deal with Rangers: report

The Rangers have made another Texas-sized deal to improve their offence.

Free agent outfielder Shin-Soo Choo agreed to a $130 million US, seven-year contract with the Rangers, a person familiar with the deal told The Associated Press on Saturday.

The person spoke on condition of anonymity because there was no official announcement about the deal that is pending a physical for Choo. That person said the physical is expected to be done before Christmas, and that any formal introduction in Texas likely wouldn't come until after the holiday Wednesday.

The deal came a month after the Rangers acquired five-time All-Star first baseman Prince Fielder in a trade with Detroit for second baseman Ian Kinsler, their primary leadoff hitter.

Texas now gets the best offensive player left in free agency, with both additions to be under contract through the 2020 season.

Choo's deal, worth about $18.6 million per season, is the third-highest this off-season. Second baseman Robinson Cano got $240 million over 10 years from Seattle and outfielder Jacoby Ellsbury, like Choo, a client of agent Scott Boras, signed a $153 million, seven-year contract with the New York Yankees.

Choo could be at the top or in the middle of the Texas lineup. He was Cincinnati's leadoff hitter for 143 games last season, when he had a .423 on-base percentage with 20 stolen bases and 21 home runs.

The Rangers missed the playoffs for the first time in four years, with 730 runs scored their fewest in a non-strike season since 1992. Texas, which went to its only two World Series in 2010 and 2011 and lost in the AL's first wildcard game in 2012, lost at home to Tampa Bay in a wild-card tiebreaker.

Choo's deal calls for salaries of $14 million in 2014 and 2015, $21 million in 2016 and 2017, and $20 million in each of the last three years of the deal. He can earn a bonus for finishing in the top five of the AL MVP balloting — from $250,000 as the winner to $50,000 for fifth place. He would get a $150,000 bonus for being a World Series MVP, and an additional $100,000 for being an AL championship series MVP or an All-Star, or for winning a Silver Slugger or Gold Glove award.

There will also be a limited no-trade clause, with Choo able each year to submit a list of 10 teams he can't be dealt to without his consent.

Fielder, a .286 career hitter, was only two seasons into his $214 million, nine-year contract with Detroit when he was traded to Texas. That deal includes $30 million going back to the Rangers, though the first payment of $4 million won't come until 2016, followed by $6 million in 2017 and 2018, and $7 million in 2019 and 2020.

Choo has a .288 career batting average and .389 OBP with 104 home runs and 427 RBIs in 853 major league games for Seattle (2005-06), Cleveland (2006-12) and Cincinnati. The 31-year-old South Korean had at least 20 homers and 20 stolen bases three times, including last season.

While Choo started 150 games for the Reds in centre field, he will likely play left field for Texas. The Rangers have Leonys Martin in centre and Alex Rios in right.

Choo's addition almost certainly closes the door on the possible return of slugger Nelson Cruz, who had 27 homers and 76 RBIs in his 109 games for Texas last season.

Cruz was suspended 50 games after Major League Baseball's investigation into a Florida clinic accused of distributing banned performance-enhancing drugs. The 2011 AL championship series MVP finished his suspension in time to play in the tiebreaker game against Tampa Bay.

Texas will lose its first-round pick by signing Choo, but would get a first-round pick back when Cruz, presumably, signs with another team.

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Grant Balfour fails physical, Orioles veto deal

The Baltimore Orioles won't be closing a deal for All-Star closer Grant Balfour.

Days after reaching a preliminary agreement with the free agent pending a physical, the Orioles said Friday that they weren't satisfied with the results of Balfour's exam.

"This is a deal that's not going to come together," Orioles executive vice-president of baseball operations Dan Duquette said on a conference call.

Duquette declined to say what specifically concerned him about Balfour, who turns 36 later this month. Balfour had shoulder and elbow surgeries that kept him out of the majors in 2005 and 2006.

"The Orioles were disappointed we couldn't complete a contract with Grant Balfour," Duquette said.

Baltimore and Balfour agreed Tuesday to a $15 million, two-year contract that included $1 million in deferred payments, a deal dependent on the physical. Duquette said the team would not seek to restructure the agreement.

"We're going to turn our attention elsewhere for now," Duquette said.

The Orioles were hoping Balfour, who had 62 saves over the last two years for Oakland, would replace Jim Johnson. Baltimore traded Johnson, who had 101 saves in 2012 and 2013 to the Athletics on Dec. 2.

"Grant is completely healthy and that was told to us today by Dr. Koco Eaton, a well-respected club physician," said Seth Levinson, one of Balfour's agents.

Levinson said Reds team physician Dr. Timothy Kremchek "reviewed the Orioles' medical report and advised that he is remarkably impressed that there has been little change in Grant's arm for almost 10 years."

"The only reasonable conclusion is that Grant is healthy and the Orioles at the last moment changed their minds," Levinson said.

Baltimore could trade for a closer, sign another free agent or use an existing player. Duquette pointed out that Johnson did not come through the minors as a closer.

"The good news is we have other options to look at," Duquette said.

Besides Balfour, there are two other prominent free agent closers still available, Chris Perez and Fernando Rodney. Perez saved 123 games over the last four seasons for Cleveland, and Rodney saved 85 in the last two years for Tampa Bay.

The Orioles have lost right-handed pitcher Scott Feldman, second baseman Brian Roberts and outfielder Nate McLouth in free agency during the off-season.

Duquette said the team still hopes to make some moves.

"We're not done yet," he said.

Baltimore signed lefty-hitting outfielder Xavier Paul to a minor league deal. He was not offered a contract by Cincinnati earlier this month.

Paul batted .244 with seven home runs and 32 RBIs in 97 games with the Reds in 2013.

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Kevin Youkilis agrees to 1-year deal with Rakuten in Japan

Kevin Youkilis is leaving the major leagues after an injury plagued season and heading to Japan.

The three-time All-Star has agreed to a one-year contract with the Rakuten Golden Eagles of Japan's Pacific League.

"They made it very apparent right from the start they were quite interested in Kevin being there," agent Joe Bick said Friday.

A 34-year-old first baseman and third baseman, Youkilis will have a $4 million base salary and can earn $1 million bonuses — including some based on walks, a provision not allowed in major league contracts.

After nine seasons with the Boston Red Sox, Youkilis signed a $12 million, one-year deal with the New York Yankees. But his back started to bother him in mid-April, and an epidural injection didn't improve a lumbar spine sprain.

Sidelined from April 27 to May 31, he went back on the DL on June 13, had surgery a week later to repair a herniated disk and didn't return. Youkilis hit just .219 with two homers and eight RBIs over 28 games and 105 at-bats.

"There's no reason to believe he's anything less than 100 per cent," Bick said. "Workouts are going normally."

Youkilis has a .281 average in 10 big league seasons with 150 homers and 618 RBIs, and he earned a World Series ring with the 2007 Red Sox.

At Rakuten, Youkilis may become teammates with star pitcher Masahiro Tanaka, who went 24-0 last season, While Tanaka wants to join the major leagues, Rakuten is reluctant to make him available in the new posting season, and the 25-year-old right-hander can't leave as a free agent until after the 2015 season.

"We were talking with eight or nine other clubs over here," Bick said. "In the final analysis, he said the right thing for my family and me is to go do this. It will be a wonderful life experience."

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Carlos Beltran, Yankees sign off on 3-year deal

Outfielder Carlos Beltran and the New York Yankees have finalized a three-year, $45-million US contract.

The agreement, reached Dec. 6, was announced by the team Thursday. The eight-time all-star is to be introduced at a Yankee Stadium news conference Friday.

The 36-year-old played for the Mets from 2005-11, when he was dealt to San Francisco. He signed a $26 million, two-year contract with St. Louis before the 2012 season and reached the World Series for the first time this year.

Slowed by knee injuries, Beltran has retained a potent bat, especially in October. He hit .296 with 24 homers and 84 runs batted in for the Cardinals this year and added two homers and 15 RBIs in the post-season.

Beltran injured ribs in the World Series opener when he banged into Fenway Park's right-fight fence while robbing Boston's David Ortiz of a grand slam.

New York seems to have a logjam among outfielders on its roster, a group that includes Jacoby Ellsbury, Brett Gardner, Ichiro Suzuki, Alfonso Soriano and Vernon Wells.

To open a roster spot, the Yankees designated right-hander Brett Marshall for assignment.

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John Axford finalizes 1-year deal with Indians

John Axford had other choices where he could pitch next season. The Indians closed the deal.

Axford, who had 46 saves for Milwaukee in 2011 but lost his closer's job last season and was traded to St. Louis, finalized a $4.5 million, one-year contract Thursday and will close for Cleveland in 2014.

The 30-year-old Axford had other teams interested in signing him, but he decided to join the Indians because of their turnaround in 2013, a strong clubhouse and manager Terry Francona, who sold Axford with his typical straightforward approach.

"He was very, very up front with me about the team, the organization, the city," Axford said. "It just sounded to me like a situation I want to be a part of."

Axford replaces two-time All-Star closer Chris Perez, who was released in October after Cleveland made its first playoff appearance since 2007. Axford agreed to the contract with Cleveland earlier this week, and completed the deal after taking a physical on Wednesday. The right-hander can earn another $1.75 million in performance bonuses based on games finished: $250,000 for 38 and $300,000 apiece for 43, 48, 53, 58 and 63.

The Indians initially considered filling the closer's role within the organization — right-handers Bryan Shaw and Cody Allen were the top candidates — and pursued several veteran free agents before working out a deal with Axford. The Indians weren't scared off despite Axford struggles last season, when he started horribly and was demoted by the Brewers before eventually being traded to St. Louis in August.

"We thought he was the right guy to take a chance on," Indians general manager Chris Antonetti said. "We feel like we added an experienced, power arm to the back of our bullpen."

Antonetti said the team wasn't reluctant to give the job to Shaw or Allen, it's just that Axford was a better option and the club feels he can "bounce back" and be an elite stopper again.

Axford attributed some of his early problems last season to pitching in the World Baseball Classic. He was throwing hard from the get-go and went through a "dead arm" period when his velocity dropped following the WBC. But after making some adjustments, Axford settled in and posted a 2.92 ERA in his final 71 appearances with the Brewers and Cardinals.

"I don't like to make excuses," Axford said. "I really enjoyed pitching for my country, but I really don't think my arm was ever ready for the start of the regular season. I had a dead arm and my velocity was down in those first few games of the regular season. But when you give up four home runs and have an ERA of 22 after four games, you can't be surprised that you're not the closer anymore."

Axford has a 22-19 career record with a 3.29 ERA and 106 saves in 281 relief appearances. He said being a free agent "was fun, but it was difficult." Ultimately, he thought the Indians were the best fit for him because they provided a chance to close again and Cleveland is just a 4 1-2 hour drive from his home in Ontario.

It also helped the Indians are on the rise after earning a wild-card spot in 2013.

"There were certainly other teams in the mix," Axford said. "They had a great season last year. It seemed like a team I would want to pitch for."

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Average MLB salary rose to record $3.39M this season

While the New York Yankees set another salary record, the Houston Astros had the lowest average in the major leagues in 14 years and the attention of the players' union.

The overall big league average rose 5.4 per cent this season to a record $3.39 million US, according to the annual report released Wednesday by the Major League Baseball Players Association. The increase was the steepest since 2006.

In the economy at large, civilian compensation is increasing at an annual rate of 1.9 per cent, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The average U.S. wage in 2012 was $42,498, according to the Social Security Administration.

The Yankees had the highest average for the 15th consecutive season at $8.17 million, breaking the mark of $7.66 million when they won the World Series in 2009. The Los Angeles Dodgers were second at $7.82 million.

Houston's average of $549,603 was the smallest since the 1999 Kansas City Royals at $534,460. The Miami Marlins were 29th at $830,069, down from $3.77 million in 2012, when they ranked 10th.

Baseball's collective bargaining agreement requires a team to use revenue-sharing money it receives "in an effort to improve its performance on the field." The Marlins had been required to raise player payroll annually from 2010-12 under an agreement between MLB and the union.

However, the issue is being dealt with under a provision in the collective bargaining agreement that gradually eliminates the 15 teams in the largest markets from receiving revenue sharing, and the Astros are 15th. Under that provision, those clubs forfeited 25 per cent of the money this year, half in 2014, 75 per cent the following year and all in 2016.

"We are watching both clubs closely, but were already aware what their 2013 spending would be and that there wasn't enough there to move beyond acknowledging as much," new union head Tony Clark said in an email to The Associated Press. "With Houston a big factor is their impending 'market disqualification.' For Miami, they actually have a long-range plan that suggests they will make the considerations necessary to be compliant.

"That said, both clubs are being monitored, and MLB recognizes that there is a potential for a dispute if the clubs do not move in the right direction."

World Series champion Boston was fourth at $5.46 million, just behind Detroit at $5.53 million. St. Louis, which won the NL pennant, was 10th at $3.75 million.

Tampa Bay had the lowest ranking among the 10 playoff teams and was 24th at $2.13 million.

Among regulars at positions, designated hitters took over from first basemen for the highest average at $10.5 million. First basemen were next at $6.5 million, followed by starting pitchers at $6.3 million, second basemen at $5.8 million, outfielders at $5.6 million, third basemen at $5.2 million, shortstops at $4.5 million, catchers at $4.4 million and relief pitchers at $2.2 million,

Figures are based on Aug. 31 rosters and disabled lists, with 940 players averaging $3,386,212. Major League Baseball, which uses slightly different methods, calculated its average at $3,320,089, an increase of 6.9 per cent.

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Reliever Joaquin Benoit, Padres strike deal: report

A person familiar with the situation says the San Diego Padres have agreed with former Detroit Tigers closer Joaquin Benoit on a two-year contract worth $15.5 million US.

The person spoke on condition of anonymity Wednesday because the deal is pending on Benoit passing a physical.

In his first season as Tigers closer, Benoit had 24 saves in 26 chances. But in Game 2 of the American League Championship Series, he allowed a tying grand slam by Boston's David Ortiz that was a turning point in the series.

Benoit, who turns 37 on July 26, is expected to replace setup man Luke Gregerson, who was traded to Oakland for outfielder Seth Smith.

He could also be insurance for closer Huston Street, who's been on the disabled list three times the last two seasons.

The Seattle Mariners have re-signed oft-injured outfielder Franklin Gutierrez for the 2014 season, adding needed depth to their outfield.

The Mariners announced the deal Wednesday following a physical. Gutierrez became a free agent on Nov. 1 when the Mariners declined his option for 2014, but chose to return to Seattle for a sixth season hoping he can finally stay healthy.

Gutierrez won a Gold Glove in 2010 but has spent most of the past three seasons on the disabled list. He missed 106 games last season with hamstring problems that led to two extended stints on the DL.

If healthy, Gutierrez could solve one of Seattle's big concerns going into season about who will play in centre field. The Mariners appear to have options at the corner outfield spots with the recent moves to acquire Logan Morrison and Corey Hart.

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Reliever Joaquin Benoit, Padres strike deal: report

A person familiar with the situation says the San Diego Padres have agreed with former Detroit Tigers closer Joaquin Benoit on a two-year contract worth $15.5 million US.

The person spoke on condition of anonymity Wednesday because the deal is pending on Benoit passing a physical.

In his first season as Tigers closer, Benoit had 24 saves in 26 chances. But in Game 2 of the American League Championship Series, he allowed a tying grand slam by Boston's David Ortiz that was a turning point in the series.

Benoit, who turns 37 on July 26, is expected to replace setup man Luke Gregerson, who was traded to Oakland for outfielder Seth Smith.

He could also be insurance for closer Huston Street, who's been on the disabled list three times the last two seasons.

The Seattle Mariners have re-signed oft-injured outfielder Franklin Gutierrez for the 2014 season, adding needed depth to their outfield.

The Mariners announced the deal Wednesday following a physical. Gutierrez became a free agent on Nov. 1 when the Mariners declined his option for 2014, but chose to return to Seattle for a sixth season hoping he can finally stay healthy.

Gutierrez won a Gold Glove in 2010 but has spent most of the past three seasons on the disabled list. He missed 106 games last season with hamstring problems that led to two extended stints on the DL.

If healthy, Gutierrez could solve one of Seattle's big concerns going into season about who will play in centre field. The Mariners appear to have options at the corner outfield spots with the recent moves to acquire Logan Morrison and Corey Hart.

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Average MLB salary rose to record $3.39M this season

While the New York Yankees set another salary record, the Houston Astros had the lowest average in the major leagues in 14 years and the attention of the players' union.

The overall big league average rose 5.4 per cent this season to a record $3.39 million US, according to the annual report released Wednesday by the Major League Baseball Players Association. The increase was the steepest since 2006.

In the economy at large, civilian compensation is increasing at an annual rate of 1.9 per cent, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The average U.S. wage in 2012 was $42,498, according to the Social Security Administration.

The Yankees had the highest average for the 15th consecutive season at $8.17 million, breaking the mark of $7.66 million when they won the World Series in 2009. The Los Angeles Dodgers were second at $7.82 million.

Houston's average of $549,603 was the smallest since the 1999 Kansas City Royals at $534,460. The Miami Marlins were 29th at $830,069, down from $3.77 million in 2012, when they ranked 10th.

Baseball's collective bargaining agreement requires a team to use revenue-sharing money it receives "in an effort to improve its performance on the field." The Marlins had been required to raise player payroll annually from 2010-12 under an agreement between MLB and the union.

However, the issue is being dealt with under a provision in the collective bargaining agreement that gradually eliminates the 15 teams in the largest markets from receiving revenue sharing, and the Astros are 15th. Under that provision, those clubs forfeited 25 per cent of the money this year, half in 2014, 75 per cent the following year and all in 2016.

"We are watching both clubs closely, but were already aware what their 2013 spending would be and that there wasn't enough there to move beyond acknowledging as much," new union head Tony Clark said in an email to The Associated Press. "With Houston a big factor is their impending 'market disqualification.' For Miami, they actually have a long-range plan that suggests they will make the considerations necessary to be compliant.

"That said, both clubs are being monitored, and MLB recognizes that there is a potential for a dispute if the clubs do not move in the right direction."

World Series champion Boston was fourth at $5.46 million, just behind Detroit at $5.53 million. St. Louis, which won the NL pennant, was 10th at $3.75 million.

Tampa Bay had the lowest ranking among the 10 playoff teams and was 24th at $2.13 million.

Among regulars at positions, designated hitters took over from first basemen for the highest average at $10.5 million. First basemen were next at $6.5 million, followed by starting pitchers at $6.3 million, second basemen at $5.8 million, outfielders at $5.6 million, third basemen at $5.2 million, shortstops at $4.5 million, catchers at $4.4 million and relief pitchers at $2.2 million,

Figures are based on Aug. 31 rosters and disabled lists, with 940 players averaging $3,386,212. Major League Baseball, which uses slightly different methods, calculated its average at $3,320,089, an increase of 6.9 per cent.

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Blue Jays ink Tomo Ohka, Jared Goedert to minor-league deals

Japanese pitcher trying to make return to majors as knuckleballer

The Canadian Press Posted: Dec 16, 2013 7:32 PM ET Last Updated: Dec 17, 2013 9:32 AM ET

The Toronto Blue Jays have signed Japanese pitcher Tomo Ohka and infielder Jared Goedert to minor-league contracts.

Both have been invited to attend the Jays' spring training camp.

Ohka, 37, is trying to make a return to the major leagues as a knuckleballer. At camp with Toronto, he will be able to compare notes with knuckleballer R.A. Dickey.

He made 10 starts for the Blue Jays in 2007 in a 10-year major-league career that includes stints with Montreal, Boston, Washington, Milwaukee and Cleveland.

Ohka's career record from 1999 to 2009 is 51-68 with a 4.26 ERA. He has pitched in Japan since 2010.

Goedert, 28, spent last season for the Pirates Class-AAA affiliate in Indianapolis where he hit .241 with 32 doubles, 11 home runs and 62 RBI in 130 games. He primarily played third base.

In eight minor league seasons, Goedert has a .271 average with 113 home runs and 482 RBI in 825 games.

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MLB agrees to Japanese bid system

Major League Baseball and Nippon Professional Baseball have finalized a new posting system that caps the fee for players at $20 million US, a deal that may lead to star pitcher Masahiro Tanaka going on the market.

Under the rules of the three-year agreement announced Monday, a Japanese club may make players available between Nov. 1 and Feb. 1 and may set a price of up to $20 million.

Starting with the day after a player is posted and continuing for 30 days, any big league team willing to pay the fee may attempt to sign the player. A major league team pays the posting fee only if it signs the player, and the fee is then payable in installments, with the timing dependent on the amount.

Pitcher Masahiro Tanaka wants to move to Major League Baseball next season but his Japanese team doesn't want to let him go.
 
MLB and Nippon Professional Baseball have finalized a new posting system that caps the fee for players at $20 million US, much less than what Japanese teams previously got for players like pitchers Yu Darvish and Daisuke Matsuzaka.
 
"I informed my team that I would like them to allow me to test my abilities in Major League Baseball next season," Tanaka said at a news conference on Tuesday after a meeting with Rakuten Eagles president Yozo Tachibana.
 
Tanaka, who went 24-0 with a 1.27 earned-run average with the Eagles during the regular season, is not eligible for free agency and can move to MLB only if the Eagles agree to post him.
 
The Eagles rejected terms of the new posting system in a vote by Japan's 12 teams on Monday, and say they want to re-sign Tanaka for next season.

— The Associated Press

A player who is not signed may not be posted again until the following Nov. 1.

Tanaka, a 25-year-old right-hander, went a 24-0 with a 1.27 earned-run average during the regular season for the Rakuten Golden Eagles of Japan's Pacific League. Eagles president Yozo Tachibana said at the winter meetings last week that no decision had been made whether to post the player.

Under the previous agreement, which began in December 1998 and ran through last off-season, there was no cap on bidding and only the big league team with the highest bid could negotiate with the player.

More than a dozen Japanese players have moved to the majors under that deal before the nine years of service time they would have needed to become a free agent in their home country.

Boston obtained pitcher Daisuke Matsuzaka from the Seibu Lions before the 2007 season for $51,111,111.11, and agreed to a $52 million, six-year contract. Texas got pitcher Yu Darvish from the

Hokkaido Nippon Ham Fighters before the 2012 season for $51,703,411 and gave him a $56 million, six-year deal. Darvish finished second in this year's American League Cy Young Award voting.

After the initial three years, the new agreement will continue on a one-year basis unless either side gives notice to terminate 180 days before it is scheduled to renew.

While Japanese teams were not happy with the cap on prices, some major league teams had objected that only the richest clubs could afford to bid on top players.

"We are pleased to have amicably reached an agreement that addresses various issues raised by all parties," said Rob Manfred, MLB's chief operating officer.

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Indians sign Canadian closer John Axford

Deal with former Brewers stopper is pending a physical

The Associated Press Posted: Dec 16, 2013 10:07 AM ET Last Updated: Dec 16, 2013 10:07 AM ET

Canadian closer John Axford has reached agreement on a contract with the Indians, pending a physical.

Axford, a resident of Ancaster Ont., could replace Chris Perez, who was released on Oct. 31 following a turbulent season with the club.

The 30-year-old Axford, who finished last season in St. Louis, is expected to undergo medical exams in the next few days and as long as there are no issues, he'll close for the Indians in 2014.

After releasing Perez, the Indians said they would consider using relievers Bryan Shaw or Cody Allen in that role, but decided to pursue a veteran and showed interest in Axford and Joaquin Benoit.

Axford lost his closer's job with Milwaukee after blowing six saves and was traded to the Cardinals in August. He blew seven saves last season.

The six-foot-five right-hander had 46 saves for the Brewers in 2011.

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Reds' Joey Votto is Canada's top baseball player for 2013

Cincinnati Reds first baseman Joey Votto is the winner of the Canadian Baseball Hall of Fame's Tip O'Neill Award for the fourth consecutive year.

The Canadian Baseball Hall of Fame award is given to the Canadian player judged to have excelled in individual achievement and team contribution while adhering to baseball's highest ideals.

The Toronto-born Votto, a starter at the 2013 all-star game, played all 162 regular-season games this past season, posting a .305 batting average, 24 home runs, 73 runs batted in and a National League-leading .435 on-base percentage. He also led the league in plate appearances (726), games played at first base (161) and assists by a first baseman (154).

Votto, 30, finished sixth in NL MVP voting after setting Canadian single-season records for walks (135) and times on base (316).

He is the first player to win the Tip O'Neill Award four consecutive times and only the second to win it more than three times, joining one-time Montreal Expos outfielder Larry Walker of Maple Ridge, B.C., who was a nine-time recipient.

"It is very flattering to be mentioned in any discussion that includes Larry Walker, who represented our country with such dedication and professionalism during his major league career," Votto said in a statement released by the Canadian Baseball Hall.

"I have to thank the Baseball Hall of Fame for its efforts in promoting our great game in Canada."

Votto will receive the award during a pre-game ceremony early next season.

Also considered for the Tip O'Neill honour this year were fellow major leaguers Brett Lawrie (Toronto), relief pitchers Jesse Crain (Tampa Bay), Jim Henderson (Milwaukee) and John Axford (free agent), first baseman Justin Morneau (Colorado) and starting pitcher Ryan Dempster (Gibsons, B.C.). Canadian women's team MVP Stephanie Savoie also garnered significant support in the fan voting.

The award is named after James (Tip) O'Neill. The Woodstock, Ont., native set several major league records with the St. Louis Browns in 1887.

"Joey Votto is not only a superstar on the field, but he's also an inspiration and a difference-maker away from the ballpark," Scott Crawford, director of operations at the Canadian Baseball Hall of Fame, said in a statement. "There was a very strong field of candidates this year, but Joey deserves this honour for his tremendous contributions both on and off the field."

Among the criteria for the Tip O'Neill Award is community and charitable endeavours. Recently, Votto launched the Joey Votto Foundation, which will help military veterans and active service members in Cincinnati and Toronto deal with post-traumatic stress disorder.

Votto's goal is to offer care to about 500 new patients each year.

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Reds' Joey Votto is Canada's top baseball player for 2013

Cincinnati Reds first baseman Joey Votto is the winner of the Canadian Baseball Hall of Fame's Tip O'Neill Award for the fourth consecutive year.

The Canadian Baseball Hall of Fame award is given to the Canadian player judged to have excelled in individual achievement and team contribution while adhering to baseball's highest ideals.

The Toronto-born Votto, a starter at the 2013 all-star game, played all 162 regular-season games this past season, posting a .305 batting average, 24 home runs, 73 runs batted in and a National League-leading .435 on-base percentage. He also led the league in plate appearances (726), games played at first base (161) and assists by a first baseman (154).

Votto, 30, finished sixth in NL MVP voting after setting Canadian single-season records for walks (135) and times on base (316).

He is the first player to win the Tip O'Neill Award four consecutive times and only the second to win it more than three times, joining one-time Montreal Expos outfielder Larry Walker of Maple Ridge, B.C., who was a nine-time recipient.

"It is very flattering to be mentioned in any discussion that includes Larry Walker, who represented our country with such dedication and professionalism during his major league career," Votto said in a statement released by the Canadian Baseball Hall.

"I have to thank the Baseball Hall of Fame for its efforts in promoting our great game in Canada."

Votto will receive the award during a pre-game ceremony early next season.

Also considered for the Tip O'Neill honour this year were fellow major leaguers Brett Lawrie (Toronto), relief pitchers Jesse Crain (Tampa Bay), Jim Henderson (Milwaukee) and John Axford (free agent), first baseman Justin Morneau (Colorado) and starting pitcher Ryan Dempster (Gibsons, B.C.). Canadian women's team MVP Stephanie Savoie also garnered significant support in the fan voting.

The award is named after James (Tip) O'Neill. The Woodstock, Ont., native set several major league records with the St. Louis Browns in 1887.

"Joey Votto is not only a superstar on the field, but he's also an inspiration and a difference-maker away from the ballpark," Scott Crawford, director of operations at the Canadian Baseball Hall of Fame, said in a statement. "There was a very strong field of candidates this year, but Joey deserves this honour for his tremendous contributions both on and off the field."

Among the criteria for the Tip O'Neill Award is community and charitable endeavours. Recently, Votto launched the Joey Votto Foundation, which will help military veterans and active service members in Cincinnati and Toronto deal with post-traumatic stress disorder.

Votto's goal is to offer care to about 500 new patients each year.

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Canadian Justin Morneau signs deal with Rockies: MLB moves

The Colorado Rockies signed first baseman Justin Morneau to a two-year, $12.5 million deal Friday.

He will step in for Todd Helton, who retired at the end of the season. The Rockies were contemplating moving Michael Cuddyer from right field over to first base before the deal with Morneau.

Like Helton, Morneau is a smooth-fielding first baseman. Since 2003, his fielding percentage (.996) is second to only Helton (.997).

Over his 11-year career, Morneau is a .277 hitter. He was the 2006 American League MVP while a member of the Minnesota Twins, hitting .321 that season with 34 homers and 130 RBIs.

The 32-year-old Morneau, from New Westminster, B.C., is a four-time all-star.

Hart, Morrison officially with Seattle

If they are healthy, the Seattle Mariners believe they may have lured Corey Hart at a bargain rate and given up little to get Logan Morrison.

Health will be the biggest question for both. On Friday, after the Mariners finalized their one-year deal with Hart and the trade with Miami to acquire Morrison, they both said they were ready for a full season after knee troubles in the past.

Seattle capped a hectic two days of activity after both players passed physicals on Friday. Morrison was acquired for right-handed reliever Carter Capps from the Marlins, while Hart signed an incentive-laden $6 million, one-year deal that could be worth up to $10.65 million if he's healthy and has 650 plate appearances.

The moves came a day after Seattle's big splash when it completed the $240 million, 10-year deal with free agent second baseman Robinson Cano.

Royals near agreement with Infante

A person close to the negotiations tells The Associated Press that the Kansas City Royals and second baseman Omar Infante are nearing an agreement on a four-year contract.

The person spoke Friday night on condition of anonymity because the deal had not been finalized. Fox Sports first reported the two sides were close to an agreement.

Royals general manager Dayton Moore has said throughout the off-season that upgrading at second base was a priority. Kansas City used six players at the position this past season, though none did enough to make the Royals feel comfortable moving forward.

The 31-year-old Infante would stabilize second base in Kansas City for the first time in years. He hit .318 with 10 homers and 51 RBIs in 118 games for Detroit last season.

Pirates ink Volquez, Barmes 

The Pittsburgh Pirates have signed right-hander pitcher Edinson Volquez and infielder Clint Barmes to one-year deals.

The team made the announcement on Friday.

The 30-year-old Volquez went 9-12 with a 5.71 ERA in 2013 while splitting time with the San Diego Padres and the Los Angeles Dodgers. He made the All-Star team in 2008 when he went 17-6 for Cincinnati.

Barmes hit .211 with five homers and 23 RBIs in 108 games for Pittsburgh last season. The 34-year-old veteran is a career .246 hitter over 11 seasons in the majors.

To make room on the roster, the Pirates designated right-hander Ryan Reid and outfielder Jerry Sands for assignment.

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Reds' Joey Votto is Canada's top baseball player for 2013

Cincinnati Reds first baseman Joey Votto is the winner of the Canadian Baseball Hall of Fame's Tip O'Neill Award for the fourth consecutive year.

The Canadian Baseball Hall of Fame award is given to the Canadian player judged to have excelled in individual achievement and team contribution while adhering to baseball's highest ideals.

The Toronto-born Votto, a starter at the 2013 all-star game, played all 162 regular-season games this past season, posting a .305 batting average, 24 home runs, 73 runs batted in and a National League-leading .435 on-base percentage. He also led the league in plate appearances (726), games played at first base (161) and assists by a first baseman (154).

Votto, 30, finished sixth in NL MVP voting after setting Canadian single-season records for walks (135) and times on base (316).

He is the first player to win the Tip O'Neill Award four consecutive times and only the second to win it more than three times, joining one-time Montreal Expos outfielder Larry Walker of Maple Ridge, B.C., who was a nine-time recipient.

"It is very flattering to be mentioned in any discussion that includes Larry Walker, who represented our country with such dedication and professionalism during his major league career," Votto said in a statement released by the Canadian Baseball Hall.

"I have to thank the Baseball Hall of Fame for its efforts in promoting our great game in Canada."

Votto will receive the award during a pre-game ceremony early next season.

Also considered for the Tip O'Neill honour this year were fellow major leaguers Brett Lawrie (Toronto), relief pitchers Jesse Crain (Tampa Bay), Jim Henderson (Milwaukee) and John Axford (free agent), first baseman Justin Morneau (Colorado) and starting pitcher Ryan Dempster (Gibsons, B.C.). Canadian women's team MVP Stephanie Savoie also garnered significant support in the fan voting.

The award is named after James (Tip) O'Neill. The Woodstock, Ont., native set several major league records with the St. Louis Browns in 1887.

"Joey Votto is not only a superstar on the field, but he's also an inspiration and a difference-maker away from the ballpark," Scott Crawford, director of operations at the Canadian Baseball Hall of Fame, said in a statement. "There was a very strong field of candidates this year, but Joey deserves this honour for his tremendous contributions both on and off the field."

Among the criteria for the Tip O'Neill Award is community and charitable endeavours. Recently, Votto launched the Joey Votto Foundation, which will help military veterans and active service members in Cincinnati and Toronto deal with post-traumatic stress disorder.

Votto's goal is to offer care to about 500 new patients each year.

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Canadian Justin Morneau signs deal with Rockies: MLB moves

The Colorado Rockies signed first baseman Justin Morneau to a two-year, $12.5 million deal Friday.

He will step in for Todd Helton, who retired at the end of the season. The Rockies were contemplating moving Michael Cuddyer from right field over to first base before the deal with Morneau.

Like Helton, Morneau is a smooth-fielding first baseman. Since 2003, his fielding percentage (.996) is second to only Helton (.997).

Over his 11-year career, Morneau is a .277 hitter. He was the 2006 American League MVP while a member of the Minnesota Twins, hitting .321 that season with 34 homers and 130 RBIs.

The 32-year-old Morneau, from New Westminster, B.C., is a four-time all-star.

Hart, Morrison officially with Seattle

If they are healthy, the Seattle Mariners believe they may have lured Corey Hart at a bargain rate and given up little to get Logan Morrison.

Health will be the biggest question for both. On Friday, after the Mariners finalized their one-year deal with Hart and the trade with Miami to acquire Morrison, they both said they were ready for a full season after knee troubles in the past.

Seattle capped a hectic two days of activity after both players passed physicals on Friday. Morrison was acquired for right-handed reliever Carter Capps from the Marlins, while Hart signed an incentive-laden $6 million, one-year deal that could be worth up to $10.65 million if he's healthy and has 650 plate appearances.

The moves came a day after Seattle's big splash when it completed the $240 million, 10-year deal with free agent second baseman Robinson Cano.

Royals near agreement with Infante

A person close to the negotiations tells The Associated Press that the Kansas City Royals and second baseman Omar Infante are nearing an agreement on a four-year contract.

The person spoke Friday night on condition of anonymity because the deal had not been finalized. Fox Sports first reported the two sides were close to an agreement.

Royals general manager Dayton Moore has said throughout the off-season that upgrading at second base was a priority. Kansas City used six players at the position this past season, though none did enough to make the Royals feel comfortable moving forward.

The 31-year-old Infante would stabilize second base in Kansas City for the first time in years. He hit .318 with 10 homers and 51 RBIs in 118 games for Detroit last season.

Pirates ink Volquez, Barmes 

The Pittsburgh Pirates have signed right-hander pitcher Edinson Volquez and infielder Clint Barmes to one-year deals.

The team made the announcement on Friday.

The 30-year-old Volquez went 9-12 with a 5.71 ERA in 2013 while splitting time with the San Diego Padres and the Los Angeles Dodgers. He made the All-Star team in 2008 when he went 17-6 for Cincinnati.

Barmes hit .211 with five homers and 23 RBIs in 108 games for Pittsburgh last season. The 34-year-old veteran is a career .246 hitter over 11 seasons in the majors.

To make room on the roster, the Pirates designated right-hander Ryan Reid and outfielder Jerry Sands for assignment.

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New baseball stadium could lure back Expos, study shows

The dream of seeing the Expos — or another Major League Baseball team — back in Montreal could be a reality, according to a study released today, but it would take $1.25 billion dollars from government and private investors.

The feasibility study — produced by the Montreal Baseball Project in collaboration with Ernst & Young and the Board of Trade of Metropolitan Montreal — concluded the new team would require about $355 million in government funding, with the rest coming from a private investor.

"We are looking for a power hitter, a hitter who can clear the bases," said former Expos Warren Cromartie, who the founded the Montreal Baseball Project in 2012.

The $400,000 feasibility study was a follow-up to a survey of 1,589 Quebecers, which found that 69 per cent wanted Major League Baseball back in the city. Of 392 business owners surveyed, 81 per cent said they supported the project.

Warren Cromartie and Michel Leblanc say they believe the financial and political climate has significantly changed since the Expos left Montreal nine years ago. (Paul Chiasson/The Canadian Press )

"The numbers do not lie. We are now closer to a return of baseball in Montreal than we have been in a decade," said Cromartie.

The study estimates that the government would recover its investment in eight years and would return more than $1 billion over the following 22 years, mostly from sales tax as well as income tax paid by players.

Michel Lablanc, the CEO and President of the Montreal Board of Trade, said he believes the financial and political climate has significantly changed since the Expos left Montreal nine years ago.

"I have the impression that even in the political realm this project is seen as a very mobilizing project for Montrealers and Quebecers," Leblanc said.

The study concludes that bringing Major League Baseball back to Montreal would require the construction of a new stadium, no farther than two kilometres from downtown, with a capacity of 36,000 seats. 

Of the $1.25 billion investment, $500 million would go toward the construction of this new stadium, as the Baseball Project says the Olympic Stadium is not in an ideal location to attract fans.

The remaining $525 million dollars would go towards buying a team, which the Baseball Project says would be purchased from an existing franchise rather than creating one from scratch.

The committee also says it is important that the team be a member of the American League — as opposed to the Expo's previous National League — because it would allow competition with nearby rivals including the New York Yankees, Boston Red Sox and Toronto Blue Jays.

The Montreal Expos moved to Washington D.C. in 2004 and changed their name to the Nationals. 

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Reds' Joey Votto is Canada's top baseball player for 2013

Cincinnati Reds first baseman Joey Votto is the winner of the Canadian Baseball Hall of Fame's Tip O'Neill Award for the fourth consecutive year.

The Canadian Baseball Hall of Fame award is given to the Canadian player judged to have excelled in individual achievement and team contribution while adhering to baseball's highest ideals.

The Toronto-born Votto, a starter at the 2013 all-star game, played all 162 regular-season games this past season, posting a .305 batting average, 24 home runs, 73 runs batted in and a National League-leading .435 on-base percentage. He also led the league in plate appearances (726), games played at first base (161) and assists by a first baseman (154).

Votto, 30, finished sixth in NL MVP voting after setting Canadian single-season records for walks (135) and times on base (316).

He is the first player to win the Tip O'Neill Award four consecutive times and only the second to win it more than three times, joining one-time Montreal Expos outfielder Larry Walker of Maple Ridge, B.C., who was a nine-time recipient.

"It is very flattering to be mentioned in any discussion that includes Larry Walker, who represented our country with such dedication and professionalism during his major league career," Votto said in a statement released by the Canadian Baseball Hall.

"I have to thank the Baseball Hall of Fame for its efforts in promoting our great game in Canada."

Also considered for the Tip O'Neill honour this year were fellow major leaguers Brett Lawrie (Toronto), relief pitchers Jesse Crain (Tampa Bay), Jim Henderson (Milwaukee) and John Axford (free agent), first baseman Justin Morneau (Colorado) and starting pitcher Ryan Dempster (Gibsons, B.C.). Canadian women's team MVP Stephanie Savoie also garnered significant support in the fan voting.

"Joey Votto is not only a superstar on the field, but he's also an inspiration and a difference-maker away from the ballpark," Scott Crawford, director of operations at the Canadian Baseball Hall of Fame, said in a statement. "There was a very strong field of candidates this year, but Joey deserves this honour for his tremendous contributions both on and off the field."

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Ex-Blue Jay J.P. Arencibia, Rangers strike deal

J.P. Arencibia is headed from one hitters park to another.

The former Toronto Blue Jays catcher has worked out a one-year deal with the Texas Rangers. Arencibia reportedly will earn $1.8 million US in base salary and an additional $300,000 in possible incentives.

"I'm looking forward to this opportunity," Arencibia said in a conference call. "From playing against the Rangers and knowing the way they go about their business on the field. I know they got a winning team out there for quite some time so that was a big deal to me."

It's believed the teams tried to work out a trade recently before Toronto chose not to offer Arencibia a contract, thus making the 27-year-old a free agent last week.

He turns 28 next month and figures to be a backup to Geovany Soto.

"We wanted to make sure we have two guys that were capable, durable guys that could, in case of an injury, go out there and carry the load. We were very impressed with J.P. His goal is to win and to be a tandem with Geo," Texas general manager Jon Daniels said. "We got two selfless guys who want to put the pitching staff first, also both have some offensive ability."

The Blue Jays then signed free agent Dioner Navarro to a two-year contract worth $8 million US after he posted a .300 batting average and a career-high 13 home runs in 89 games (240 at-bats) this past season with the Chicago Cubs.

Arencibia, on the other hand, suffered through a career-worst season in 2013. While his 21 homers were the second-highest total among major league catchers, he had career lows in batting average (.194), on-base percentage (.227) and slugging percentage (.365).

Arencibia, who also racked up a team-high 148 strikeouts, has compiled a .258 OBP in 1,392 major league plate appearances. He also has started the eighth-most games among major league backstops over the last seasons, averaging 108.

But his numbers in Arlington have been impressive, with a 1.040 OPS, thanks to seven home runs and a double in 44 plate appearances.

Arencibia is expected to back up veteran Geovany Soto.

According to dallasnews.com, Rangers general manager Jon Daniels wanted somebody who could step in and handle the load of playing every day should Soto get hurt.

Blue Jays GM Alex Anthopoulos said cutting Arencibia loose was "not an easy decision at all," and predicted the catcher would improve next season.

It could happen, with a change of scenery and favourable hitting environment.

According to ESPN.com's Park Factors, Rangers Ballpark in Arlington surrendered 0.903 home runs per game in 2013, which ranked 19th among the 30 major league parks.

Rogers Centre in Toronto was third with 1.289 home runs per game.

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Athletics trade pitcher Brett Anderson to Rockies

The Oakland Athletics found a trade partner for pitcher Brett Anderson and his big salary.

The A's dealt the left-hander and cash to the Colorado Rockies for lefty Drew Pomeranz and minor league right-hander Chris Jensen on Tuesday.

Two-time AL West champion Oakland had been looking to move Anderson, who is due to make $8 million this season and has a $12 million contract option for the 2015 season. That includes a $1.5 million buyout.

The 25-year-old Anderson was the Athletics' starter on opening day this year. He went 1-4 with a 6.04 in five starts and 16 appearances, finishing up as a reliever in an injury-interrupted season.

"Thanks to the A's Organization and Fans for everything," Anderson posted on Twitter. "I'll nothing but fond memories of my time there."

Of his move to Denver, he added: "Peyton Manning and I are going to become best friends ... fact."

This marked A's general manager Billy Beane's fourth trade in just over a week.

"We had a lot of starting pitching, and in the acquisition of Pomeranz, it allows us to turn back the clock a little with another very talented left-hander," Beane said at the winter meetings in Lake Buena Vista, Fla. "Brett's been with us for several years, and someone obviously with that kind of talent we think very highly of, but with the amount of guys we have, we knew we could use that to get younger guys with less service time, and that was attractive."

Anderson, a second-round draft pick by Arizona in 2006, has been plagued by injuries in recent years.

He returned in the summer of 2012 after missing 14 months following Tommy John elbow surgery. During his lengthy rehab, Anderson worked to improve his fitness and lost more than 20 pounds. He then missed four months this past season with a sprained right ankle and stress fracture in his right foot.

"Great talent and certainly moments of brilliance," Beane said. "From the Rockies end, they're probably getting him at a great time. He's been through the Tommy John. He's always been motivated. He's a hard worker, and this is the time to get him, because the cost of acquisition a couple of years ago on Brett, well there really wasn't one. He was an untouchable."

The power-armed Pomeranz was on the disabled list late in the season with left biceps tendinitis. He went 0-4 with a 6.23 ERA in with four starts and eight outings for 21 2-3 innings. He went 2-9 in 22 starts the previous year. Beane envisions keeping him as a starter at this stage, but eventually could work into a bullpen role.

Jensen went 5-8 with a 4.55 ERA in 152 1-3 innings for Class A Modesto. He had 136 strikeouts to 39 walks in 28 starts.

In less than 24 hours last week, Beane completed three trades while also working to deal Anderson. The A's acquired new closer Jim Johnson from the Orioles to replace All-Star closer Grant Balfour. Then last Tuesday, they traded for San Diego right-handed reliever Luke Gregerson for Seth Smith and acquired outfielder Craig Gentry from Texas for top prospect Michael Choice.

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