Left-handed reliever Mike Stanton has reached a tentative, two-year agreement with the Cincinnati Reds, a person familiar with the discussions said on Sunday.
Stanton, 39, played for Washington and San Francisco last season, making 82 appearances that proved he hadn't lost his knack for pitching often.
Reds general manager Wayne Krivsky declined to confirm the deal, which also contains an option for a third year. The Reds don't discuss their talks with free agents until they have signed agreements.
Details weren't immediately available, but a person close to the negotiations confirmed the agreement to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity.
The Reds have been trying to upgrade their bullpen since the middle of last season, making a flurry of moves that resulted in 18 players pitching in relief overall. After putting up a combined 5.16 earned run average in the first half, the retooled bullpen went 15-11 with a 3.51 ERA in the second half, helping the Reds stay in contention until the last week.
The bullpen is again a high priority in the off-season. Left-handed closer Eddie Guardado, acquired from Seattle in one of those mid-season trades, had reconstructive elbow surgery in September and won't be ready to pitch at the start of next season.
Stanton gives the Reds a proven option for late in games. He went 3-5 with a 4.47 ERA in 56 games last season for Washington, which traded him to San Francisco on July 28 for a minor league pitcher. Stanton was 4-2 in 26 games for the Giants with eight saves and a 3.09 ERA.
The left-hander also has pitched for Atlanta, Boston, Texas, the Yankees and the Mets during his career.
The Reds also are trying to find a shortstop. Krivsky declined to comment on reports that the Reds were close to an agreement with Alex Gonzalez, who hit .255 with nine homers for Boston last season.
© The Canadian Press, 2007
