Blue Jays take flyer on veteran pitcher Benitez

DUNEDIN, Fla.–The Blue Jays added another veteran arm to their spring training bullpen mix Tuesday morning, signing 35-year-old reliever Armando Benitez to a minor-league contract.

Benitez will report Thursday's to the Jays' minor-league camp, said general manager J.P. Ricciardi.

"He hasn't got in shape, but we're going to keep stockpiling as many arms as we can," said Ricciardi. "Nothing ventured, nothing gained. We're not looking for a closer."

Benitez split last season between the San Francisco Giants and the Florida Marlins, his won-loss record a combined 2-8 with a 5.36 ERA. In 14 seasons as a reliever he has 289 saves.

The Jays also sent reliever Casey Janssen to the infirmary Tuesday. Janssen experienced some soreness in his arm while warming up for a simulated game. He was sent to the Jays' medical staff for an examination.