The Texas Rangers make the winning bid for star Japanese pitcher Yu Darvish. As expected, the $51.7 million offer is the largest ever made through the posting system, breaking the record of $51.1 million which the Red Sox offered for Daisuke Matsuzaka in 2006. The Rangers now have 30 days to agree on a contract with Darvish.
The Orioles clear a spot on their roster for free agent DH Vladimir Guerrero, whose contract is finalized today, by placing P Alfredo Simon on the restricted list. Simon is still in custody in the Dominican Republic following a shooting death on New Year’s Eve, but the O’s are now cautiously optimistic that he may be released within 10 days as a result of developments in the investigation into the shooting that could clear him as a suspect.
Adrian Beltre agrees to a $96 million, six-year deal with the Rangers, the reigning American League champs. The acquisition of the All-Star third baseman will make incumbent Michael Young the team’s designated hitter, giving Texas a potent lineup and a much-improved defense.
The Boston Red Sox sign free agent 3B Adrian Beltre to a one-year deal worth $9 million, with an option for a second year. The deal is motivated by the uncertain state of Mike Lowell’s health.
The Angels sign DH Hideki Matsui, the MVP of the 2009 World Series, to a one-year deal.
The Red Sox sign former Angels ace John Lackey to a five-year contract worth $85 million and OF Mike Cameron to a two-year deal worth approximately $16 million.
Three-time Cy Young Award winner Pedro Martinez, who last pitched in the 2009 World Baseball Classic, signs a one-year contract with the Philadelphia Phillies. The right-hander, who has been slowed by injuries the past three seasons, will first head to the disabled list and is not expected to play for another three weeks.
The Red Sox sign another infielder to a long-term contract when Kevin Youkilis agrees to a four-year deal reportedly worth $41 million. The 29 year-old Gold Glove first baseman will join Dustin Pedroia, who inked a six-year contract extension in December, on the right side of Boston’s infield for the foreseeable future.
According to reports, a preliminary agreement has been reached between the Cubs and free-agent outfielder Milton Bradley on a $30 million, three-year deal. The switch-hitting All-Star, who batted .321 and led the American League with a .436 on-base percentage, will fill the team’s need for a left-handed presence in the middle of the lineup.
The Tampa Bay Rays come to terms with Pat Burrell, whose Phillies beat Tampa Bay in the 2008 World Series. The deal is for two years and $16 million. Burrell hit 33 homers and drew 102 walks last season, but his production will plummet in Tampa.