Rangers Sign Reliever Bard To Minor League Deal

ARLINGTON (CBSDFW/AP) — Right-hander Daniel Bard has agreed to a minor league contract with the Texas Rangers that includes an invitation to big league spring training.

Bard, who has spent his major league career with Boston, is coming off surgery a month ago for Thoracic Outlet Syndrome. His activities are expected to be limited during spring training.

The deal was announced Monday, when the Rangers also agreed to a minor league contract with right-hander Armando Galarraga.

Bard proved to be a valuable member of the Red Sox bullpen from 2009 to 2011.

In 2012, he blew up for a 7.03 ERA, and was subsequently sent down to Triple A Pawtucket. Last season he was limited to 2 appearances before being shut down.

Bard was 10-19 with a 3.67 ERA in 211 games for the Red Sox from 2009-13. He was designated for assignment by Boston on Sept. 1, and claimed off waivers by the Chicago Cubs on Sept. 4.

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