Hot Stove roundup: Brantley locks in with Tribe
On a relatively quiet Monday, the Indians made news late in the day by reaching a long-term deal with Michael Brantley. MLB.com's Jordan Bastian confirmed the new contract is a four-year deal worth $25 million in guaranteed salary, with a club option valued at $11 million for 2018.
While the Indians locked up Brantley, however, they apparently have not had any talks with right-hander Ubaldo Jimenez's agent in "weeks," according to FOX Sports. Jimenez remains one of the top arms available on the free-agent market, though it remains unclear where he will pitch in 2014.
Other news and notes:
• The Rangers added another potential starter to the mix on Monday, agreeing to terms with right-hander Tommy Hanson on a Minor League contract with an invitation to Spring Training, according to Major League sources. Hanson will enter Spring Training as a candidate to be Texas' fifth starter, while right-handers Nick Tepesch and Colby Lewis, and left-handers Robbie Ross and Michael Kirkman, will also look to earn a rotation spot this spring.
• Elsewhere in the American League West, the Angels added some bullpen depth, signing veteran reliever Brandon Lyon to a Minor League contract with an invitation to Spring Training. As of now, Lyon projects to start the season at Triple-A in the Halos' organization.
• The Nationals agreed to a one-year deal with Tyler Clippard, the last of the club's 10 arbitration-eligible players. Though the terms of the deal were not disclosed, CBSSports.com reported that Clippard will earn $5.875 million this season. Clippard had requested $6.35 million and the Nationals had countered at $4.45 million, so the reported agreement checks in slightly higher than the $5.4 million midpoint.
• Veteran free agent Johan Santana is progressing through his rehab program as he attempts to continue his Major League career, according to FOX Sports. According to Santana's agent, Peter Greenberg, the southpaw threw off a mound twice last week and plans to continue that work this week. Santana turns 35 next month.