Add one more name to the mix of those vying for the last starting spot in the Indians rotation.
First reported by CBS' Sports John Heyman, the Indians have agreed to terms with Bruce Chen on a minor-league deal with an invite to spring training. If Chen would make the roster coming out of spring training, he would make $1 million with another $1 million possible with incentives.
The 37-year old left-hander has pitched for 10 teams in the majors but has spent the past six with Kansas City. He was 2-4 last season with a 7.45 ERA in 13 games with seven being starts. He was designated for assignment in August and released in September. In his 16-year career, Chen is 82-80 with a 4.58 ERA in 398 games with 225 being starts.
Chen would be considered a longshot for the rotation as he vies with Danny Salazar, Zach McAllister, Josh Tomlin and T.J. House for that final spot. Pitchers and catchers are scheduled to report to Goodyear, Ariz., on Wednesday. The Indians now have 22 non-roster invitees, including 10 pitchers.
The Indians did attend Barry Zito's workout in Houston last Tuesday, but Zito on Monday ended up signing a minor-league deal with Oakland.
