MIAMI — All-star closer Heath Bell agreed to a $27 million, three-year contract Friday with the Miami Marlins.
The agreement, which is subject to a physical, is the first free-agent deal for the Marlins since they began courtships last month with several top players.
Bell had more than 40 saves each of the past three seasons for the Padres. This year he had 43 in 48 chances with a 2.44 ERA.
The Marlins are uncertain of the availability of their closer this year, Leo Nuñez. He’s on the restricted list after he admitted to playing under an assumed name. Nuñez, whose real name is Juan Oviedo, had 36 saves in 42 chances this year with a 4.06 ERA.
Mauer fit as a fiddle
MINNEAPOLIS — Twins catcher Joe Mauer, who played in only 82 games last season because of various ailments, dismissed rumors about his health and ensured fans he will be ready to go next season.
“I’m healthy, I’m happy,” Mauer said. “I can rule out crazy things I’ve heard like Lyme disease, Lou Gehrig’s disease, rheumatoid arthritis, lupus. I think we’ve heard it all. I don’t have any of those things.”
Footnotes.
The Dodgers signed left-hander Chris Capuano to a two-year deal worth $10 million. Capuano was 11-12 with a 4.55 ERA for the Mets last season.
• The Indians agreed to a minor-league contract with catcher Matt Pagnozzi, who played briefly with Colorado and Pittsburgh last season.
Denver Post wire services
