The Yankees have signed pitcher Scott Baker to a minor league contract which includes an invitation to spring training.
Baker, 33, will join the Yankees in Spring Training as he tries to crack their opening day roster. Baker made eight starts and 17 relief appearances for the Rangers last season finishing with a 5.47 ERA and and 55/14 K/BB ratio in 80 2/3 innings. The right hander has had a tough time returning to form from Tommy John surgery in 2012.
Baker proved to be serviceable while with the Twins from 2007-2011 where he was 55-37 with a 3.98 ERA however his fly ball tendencies make him a risky bet in Yankee Stadium.
Rockies bring back Rafael Betancourt
The Rockies have re-signed releiver Rafael Betancourt to a minor league contract.
Returnng from Tommy John surgery, Betancourt made 21 minor league appearances where he compiled a 4.66 ERA and a 1.86 WHIP. He allowed 28 hits in 19 1/3 innings of work while posting a 15/2 K/BB ratio.
The now 40-year-old will try to win a bullpen spot for the Rockies as they head into the 2015 season.
Neal Cotts signs with Brewers
Left hander Neal Cotts has signed a contract with the Brewers. Cotts will earn $3 million next season.
Cotts spent the last two seasons with the Rangers where he appeared in 131 games posting a 2.84 ERA and a 1.16 WHIP.
While Cotts will be called upon to get out left handed batters he also has the ability to pitch to right handers as well.