December 10, 1990
Boston made its first addition to their Major League roster, signing right handed reliever Steve Farr to a 2 year, $1.8 million deal. Farr had been in Kansas City for the majority of his career before being traded to San Diego mid-season last year. He finished with 26 saves to go along with a 3.87 ERA and 1.42 WHIP. He had struggled in the early part of the season with the Royals, but the 33 year old appeared rejuvenated after the trade. It is expected that Farr will start the season as the team’s primary setup man ahead of closer Jeff Reardon.
Another prominent reliever signed, with former Red Sox closer Lee Smith agreeing to a 3 year, $4.2 million contract with the Angels. Smith had an outstanding season in 1990, being traded to Pittsburgh at the deadline and bolstering the team’s bullpen. Smith has 265 saves in his career and should serve as the closer for California.
The Oakland A’s continue to add to their roster, picking up catch Don Slaught on a 5 year, $10.6 million deal. He had a strong year in Pittsburgh, hitting .285 with 8 homers and 77 RBI.
The Padres locked up starting pitcher Ed Whitson to a contract extension. The 35 year old had been due to become a free agent after next season, and is now signed through the 1994 season
Amateur Draft
The amateur draft will get underway later today. It is scheduled for 40 rounds, and Boston has the first overall pick. 18 year old outfielder Manny Ramirez is the top rated prospect, but his rumored bonus demands to sign a deal may preclude teams from drafting him. The Red Sox have not given an indication of who they were leaning towards selecting. OSA produced their final mock draft today, and do expect that Ramirez will be the selection.
