Blue Jays sign Macier Izturis

The TORONTO BLUE JAYS have signed INF MAICER IZTURIS to a three year contract worth US $3 million per season with a club option for a fourth season at US $3 million.  Izturis will also make a yearly donation to the JAYS CARE FOUNDATION supporting their efforts in the community.

IZTURIS, 32, appeared in 100 games for the Los Angeles Angels last season, posting a .256 average with two home runs, 20 RBI and 17 stolen bases in 19 attempts. The Barquisimeto, Venezuela native is a nine year veteran having spent eight years with the Angels after breaking into the majors in 2004 with the Montreal Expos. In 791 career games, the 5-8, 175 pound switch hitter has batted .273 with a .337 OBP (on base percentage) and a .718 OPS (on base + slugging), including 91 stolen bases, while splitting time primarily between second base, third base and shortstop.