Gagne recovering, throws off the mound
Texas Rangers closer Eric Gagne threw off a mound for the first time at spring training Monday in Surprise, Ariz., completing a 37-pitch session with no complications.
Gagne, who had as many surgeries (two) as relief appearances last season, said he will do some light throwing today before returning to the mound Wednesday or Thursday.
“I felt free,” said Gagne, who had elbow surgery in April and season-ending back surgery in July. “It’s good to get back on the mound again. I’m going slow, but feel really good right now.”
The right-hander, who signed with the Rangers in the offseason, mixed in a few halfhearted breaking pitches, but threw mostly fastballs without the presence of a radar gun. Manager Ron Washington didn’t see the session, but said the medical staff told him Gagne felt good.
Swindal makes apology
Steve Swindal returned to work at Legends Field in Tampa, Fla., and apologized for becoming a distraction. He wouldn’t speculate whether his arrest last week for driving under the influence would alter his role as George Steinbrenner’s designated successor to run the New York Yankees.
Swindal was arrested early Thursday by the St. Petersburg police, who claimed he was driving 61 mph in a 35 mph zone. Swindal was released on a $250 bond and has a March 15 court date ahead of him.
Steinbrenner said in June 2005 that Swindal eventually would succeed him as the Yankees’ controlling owner.
Alomar, Mets agree
Sandy Alomar Jr. agreed to a minor league contract with the New York Mets.
The 40-year-old catcher is expected to report to spring training today. He would get a $700,000, one-year contract if added to the major league roster.
Gibbons’ stay extended
The Toronto Blue Jays and manager John Gibbons have agreed to a one-year, $650,000 contract extension, a team official said.
Gibbons led the Blue Jays to an 87-75 record and a second-place finish in the A.L. East last season.
Zambrano expects deal
Chicago Cubs starting pitcher Carlos Zambrano said he expects to sign a one-year contract before today’s arbitration hearing.
“I think it’s 85 to 90 percent that we don’t go to arbitration,” Zambrano said.
Zambrano caused a stir last week when he told WGN-TV he would leave as a free agent if he did not have a multiyear contract by opening day, but backed off that request.
He earned $6.5 million last season when he was 16-7 with a 3.41 ERA and 210 strikeouts, then asked for $15.5 million in arbitration. The Cubs countered at $11.025 million, which is more than any player has been awarded thus far.