Twins sign Jason Kubel, offer big money to Mike Pelfrey
Major League Baseball's annual winter meetings came to an end in Florida on Thursday, and the Twins developed pipelines to potential free-agent signings during the entire four-day process.
“We did a lot of good things down here,” Twins general manager Terry Ryan told the Star Tribune. “It’s amazing how many sessions we’ve had with different people. There have been a few things happening over the last day and a half. I’m sure when people get home and regroup a little bit, you will see a little more of that.”
One deal did get finalized, according to Darren Wolfson.
Yes, that's ex-Twin outfielder/designated hitter Jason Kubel, who flamed out in the second year of his two-year, $16 million contract he signed with the Diamondbacks following the 2011 season.
He hit just .216 with five home runs between stints with Arizona and Cleveland last season, but he hit a career-high 30 home runs in 2012.
Meanwhile, the Star Tribune reported that the Twins have offered starting pitcher Mike Pelfrey a two-year, $12 million deal. That's $2 million more than the team originally offered.
Aaron Gleeman of NBC Sports hates the offer, saying "as a Twins fan I’m pretty grossed out right now."
Pelfrey went 5-13 with a 5.19 ERA last season for the Twins.
Yahoo! Sports, so far, has given the Twins a B for an offseason grade.
The signings of right-handers Ricky Nolasco and Phil Hughes, though not earthshaking, provide an immediate upgrade to Minnesota moribund rotation. The Twins have more to do, which includes finding a leadoff hitter, a veteran catcher and additional power for the middle of the lineup.
