Tom Martin felt guilty when the Rockies released him last summer, upset that he hadn’t performed better.
The left-hander never returned to the big leagues, but will have a chance to go out on his own terms after signing a minor-league deal today with the Los Angeles Dodgers.
Martin, 37, pitched the entire 2006 season with the Rockies and appeared in 26 games last year before Colorado cut ties when he posted an 8.10 ERA in six July appearances. Martin is guaranteed $78,000 and will make $600,000 when on the major-league roster. If he’s not placed on the 40-man roster by May 1, Martin can request his release if he’s not added within three days.
Martin was among several players officially snatching up jobs on Wednesday, a day when outfielder Scott Podsednik’s specific contract details were revealed. The Rockies signed Podsednik to a $700,000 non-guaranteed minor-league deal to compete for the fifth outfielder’s spot with Cory Sullivan. Podsednik can ask to be released on March 30, the day before the regular-season opener, if not on the 25-man roster.
Other names of note who signed:
–Left-hander Brian Anderson, whom the Rockies had interest in signing and sending to extending spring training, received a one-year, $475,000-minor-league deal with Tampa Bay. He can ask for his release on July 21 if not on the 40-man roster within 48 hours.
–The Indians added reliever Brendan Donnelly on a $750,000-minor-league deal.
–Red Sox outfielder Bobby Kielty’s contract was also finalized. It’s a minor-league deal for $800,000, with $100,000 guaranteed.
–Former AL rookie of the year Eric Hinske landed with the Rays, agreeing to an $800,000 minor-league deal, of which $100,000 is guaranteed.
–Along with Martin, the Dodgers also added right-handed starter Jason Johnson, who signed a minor-league deal, which calls for an $850,000 salary if in the majors.
Troy E. Renck: 303-954-1301 or trenck@denverpost.com
This article has been corrected in this online archive. Originally, due to a reporting error, it cited an incorrect team name for Indians receiver Brendan Donnelly.
