The Rays have made the contracts of Kyle Farnsworth and Kelly Johnson official while also releasing the financial terms.
Farnsworth returns at a base salary of $1.25 million for 2013, with built-in incentives that could double his salary. The reliever said on a conference call that five or six other teams were in the mix and the terms were essentially the same. But the ability to remain close to his family throughout the season was a big factor. As was returning to the atmosphere he enjoyed during the previous two seasons. Farnsworth indicated his arm, which was an issue last season, feels good and that he’s thrown all of his pitches so far in personal workouts.
Johnson’s base salary is $2.45 million; less than he has made in each of previous three seasons and a step down from the $6.38 million he was paid in 2012 by the Blue Jays.
To make room on the 40-man roster, the Rays designated Reid Brignac and Elliot Johnson for assignment. Both were out of options and buried on the middle infield depth chart. Now the Rays have 10 days to trade, release, or outright them, which involves passing them through waivers (and, in Johnson’s case, getting his consent on an optional assignment). The Astros would seem to be a fit for either after trading starting shortstop Jed Lowrie yesterday.
Any estimates on how many games Zobrist will play as the utility player? (Hate calling him that with how good he is) between second and right field I hope he is playing at least 100! Or will he play more than Kelly????
Zobrist should play upwards of 150 games. Where he plays will probably be a day-to-day decision.
Thanks Tommy, that’s good to hear your thoughts. I couldn’t see the lineup without him, Team USA and all.
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