It was reported earlier Monday that the Arizona Diamondbacks were nearing an agreement with free agent reliever J.J. Putz, and sure enough they’ve now gotten all the way there.
J.J. Putz Signs Two-Year Contract With Diamondbacks
Putz and the Diamondbacks have agreed on a two-year contract with a third-year, 2013 option. The deal comes with $10 million guaranteed. It’s believed that Putz found the Diamondbacks appealing because he lives in the area, but Arizona will also give him the opportunity to go back to closing. Putz has served as a setup man with the Mets and White Sox the last two years, but closed for the Mariners between 2006-2008, and enjoys the role.
Putz is set to undergo a physical exam Monday and Tuesday, after which the deal should become official. The hard-throwing righty will try to help solidify a bullpen that last year posted an ERA of 5.74, with 62 home runs allows.
Update: Ken Rosenthal has the contract breakdown. Putz will earn $4 million in 2011 and $4.5 million in 2012, with a $1.5m 2013 buyout and a $6.5 million 2013 club option. In other words, he will earn a minimum of $10 million and a maximum of $15 million.
See More:
