Non-roster invitee Harang a rotation possibility

GOODYEAR, Ariz. -- The Indians are always on the hunt for more depth in their rotation. One more option walked through the doors of Cleveland's spring complex on Saturday morning.

The Indians signed veteran right-hander Aaron Harang to a Minor League contract that includes a non-roster invitation to Spring Training. Harang -- already sporting Tribe gear -- spent time chatting with some of his new teammates in the clubhouse before undergoing a physical to complete the deal.

"Aaron will come into camp with a chance to compete for a spot in the rotation," Indians general manager Chris Antonetti said. "He pitched well at the end of the year [in 2013]. His stuff was consistent with where it's been in the past. He maintained a consistent strikeout rate and his walk rate actually improved. He just gave up a few more home runs last year."

As things currently stand, the Indians' rotation has four virtual locks in Justin Masterson, Corey Kluber, Danny Salazar and Zach McAllister. The fifth spot is up for grabs between Carlos Carrasco, Josh Tomlin, Shaun Marcum, Trevor Bauer and Harang.

Last year, the 35-year-old Harang split the season between the Mariners and Mets, going 5-12 with a 5.40 ERA in 26 starts. He logged 143 1/3 innings, ending the year with 113 strikeouts against 40 walks. Harang was released by Seattle on Aug. 31 before being signed by New York at the start of September.

In parts of 12 seasons in the Major Leagues, Harang has gone 110-116 with a 4.28 ERA in 325 appearances between stops with the A's, Reds, Padres, Dodgers, Mariners and Mets. In 2006-07 with Cincinnati, the right-hander went a combined 32-17 with a 3.75 ERA in 70 games. Since the onset of the '08 season, he has gone 47-67 with a 4.41 ERA in 163 appearances.