Twins finalize 2 player contracts

Published 11:39 pm Monday, December 23, 2013

MINNEAPOLIS — The Minnesota Twins have signed right-hander Mike Pelfrey and catcher Kurt Suzuki.

The contracts were finalized Monday. Pelfrey agreed more than a week ago to an $11 million, two-year deal. Suzuki agreed Friday to a $2.75 million, one-year deal.

Pelfrey went 5-13 with a 5.19 ERA in 29 starts last season, his first after Tommy John ligament replacement surgery on his elbow. He’ll return to the rotation with Kevin Correia, with Ricky Nolasco and Phil Hughes now at the top. One spot will be open in spring training.

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The 30-year-old Suzuki will back up prospect Josmil Pinto, with Joe Mauer moving to first base and Ryan Doumit traded to Atlanta.

To make room on the 40-man roster, the Twins sent outfielder Darin Mastroianni outright to Triple-A Rochester.