According to CBS Sports' Jon Heyman, the Phillies have added another reliever in right-handed pitcher Juan Cruz:
Juan Cruz sign w/ phillies. Minor-league deal w/ big-league invite.
— Jon Heyman (@JonHeymanCBS) January 16, 2013
Cruz could be a nice addition. Since the deal is a minor league deal, Cruz could be nice inventory to have. The young relievers such as Phillippe Aumont and Justin De Fratus figure to get a look; Cruz could be stashed at Lehigh Valley in case they do not work out so well.
Looking at Cruz's stats last season, a 2.78 ERA in 43 appearances seems decent. But, 19 walks in 35 2/3 innings was enough for the Pittsburgh Pirates to release Cruz last August. He was not picked up by another team down the stretch.
The 34 year-old Cruz has a career 4.05 ERA and a 38-36 record with six saves.
