The Reds have agreed to sign free agent left-hander Jeff Francis to a minor league deal, tweets Jon Heyman of CBSSports.com. The 31-year-old is represented by Frontline Sports Management.
Last week it was reported that Francis was gaining interest from clubs, including the Reds, Mariners, Blue Jays, and Mets. The Cubs were also linked to the veteran before the New Year.
Francis spent 2011 with the Royals, posting a 4.82 ERA with 4.5 K/9 and 1.9 BB/9 across 31 starts. His 183 innings of work was his highest total since 2007, the season before he suffered a shoulder injury which required surgery and caused him to miss the entire 2009 campaign.
Ken Rosenthal of FOX Sports (via Twitter) first reported that the two sides were nearing an agreement.
His 85 mph fastball would have gotten lit up in the AL East. I’m glad the Jays didn’t sign him, even if he is Canadian.
He’s not likely to make the team, insurance move.
Walt continues to make his way thru his offseason check list.. Great signings, keep em’ coming please.
Solid signing by the Reds.
Solid depth signing. Whats the deal with Chapman? Is he starting ever or what?
i remember when this guy was a “can’t miss” prospect lol
I remember when he carried his team to the World Series and then blew out his labrum…lol
his stats were ok as a royal…surprised he couldnt get one Major league minimum offer
this is actually a steal in my opinion. Any additional lefty Pitching is a good move…