http://www.mlbtraderumors.com/2011/11/rangers-to-sign-joe-nathan-.html
The Rangers have signed Joe Nathan, according to T.R. Sullivan of MLB.com.
It's a two-year deal with a club option for 2014, according to Evan Grant of
the Dallas Morning News (Twitter links). Nathan will earn approximately $7MM
per season, according to Jon Heyman of SI.com (on Twitter). Jeff Wilson of
the Fort Worth Star-Telegram tweets that the deal's worth $14.5MM, including
a buyout for the option. Dave Pepe of Pro Agents, Inc. represents Nathan.
The move means Neftali Feliz is headed to Texas' rotation, the team
announced. However, the Rangers aren't out on starters, according to Ken
Rosenthal of FOX Sports (on Twitter).
Nathan, a Houston native who turns 37 tomorrow, missed the entire 2010 season
while recovering from Tommy John surgery. The four-time All-Star posted a
4.84 ERA with 8.7 K/9, 2.8 BB/9 and a 34.9% ground ball rate in 44 2/3
innings this past season, saving 14 games. His average fastball velocity
dropped to 92.3 mph in 2011 after sitting in the 93-95 mph range from 2002-09.
Nathan, an unranked free agent, won't cost the Rangers a draft pick and his
former team, the Twins, won't obtain a compensatory pick. The Twins declined
a $12.5MM option for Nathan after the regular season, but maintained interest
in their longtime closer. MLBTR's Tim Dierkes ranked Nathan 48th on his list
of top 50 free agents.