Free-agent pitcher Mike Pelfrey has finalized a $16 million, two-year contract with the Detroit Tigers, who also added catcher Jarrod Saltalamacchia for the major league minimum of $507,500.
The 31-year-old Pelfrey joins a Detroit rotation bolstered by the signing of fellow right-hander Jordan Zimmermann less than a week ago. Pelfrey spent the last three seasons with Minnesota and went 6-11 with a 4.26 ERA this year.
Detroit finished last this year after winning the AL Central the previous four seasons and also has acquired closer Francisco Rodriguez and outfielder Cameron Maybin since the end of the season.
Pelfrey spent his first seven seasons with the New York Mets and has a 61-81 big league record with a 4.52 ERA over 10 years.
Saltalamacchia, 30, was released in May by the Miami Marlins, who owed him $8 million in 2016, the final season of a $21 million, three-year deal. The money he's paid by Detroit will offset a portion of the Marlins' contract.
"Jarrod provides catching depth to our roster and is a veteran presence," new Tigers general manager Al Avila said. "As a switch-hitter, he adds some power from the left side of the plate."
Saltalamacchia hit .225 with nine homers and 24 RBIs in 79 games for Miami and Arizona this year.
