AP source: A's agree to terms with RHP Balfour

[January 15, 2011]  OAKLAND, Calif. (AP) -- A person with knowledge of the situation says the Oakland Athletics have agreed with free agent right-handed reliever Grant Balfour on a $4.1 million, two-year deal.

The person spoke on condition of anonymity to The Associated Press on Friday because the contract will not be finalized until Balfour passes a physical. The A's are boosting their already talented pitching staff a month before pitchers and catchers report to spring training in Phoenix.

The 33-year-old went 2-1 with a 2.28 ERA in 57 appearances for the Tampa Bay Rays last season, his seventh year in the big leagues.

Balfour will provide depth to a bullpen already featuring 2009 AL Rookie of the Year closer Andrew Bailey.

[Associated Press; By JANIE McCAULEY]

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