The Joel Zumaya era in Detroit has officially come to an end.
According to MLB.com’s Jason Beck, former Tigers flame throwing right-hander Joel Zumaya has signed a one-year deal with division rival Minnesota. The deal is reportedly worth $800K with a chance to reach $1.7 million with incentives.
Zumaya, 27, mentioned that he ended up signing with the Twins because they offered him guaranteed money and a major league contract. The Tigers reportedly weren’t on his short list with San Diego and Boston showing the most interest aside from Minnesota.
Phil Mackey of 1500ESPN.com was apparently informed by a Twins official that Zumaya was clocked around 92-94 mph during his December workout in Houston.
Zumaya’s once very promising career has been hampered numerous injuries. Since 2006 Zumaya has had a total of five surgeries including two on his shoulder, two on his elbow and one on his middle finger.
Zumaya hasn’t pitched since June of 2010 due to a fracture in his throwing elbow.
Ref: MLBTradeRumors.com, MLB.com, ESPN.com, wcsx.com (image)
