DUNEDIN, Fla. (AP) -Armando Benitez is happy to be in camp with the Toronto Blue Jays.
It doesn’t matter to the 35-year-old that he has a minor league contract that will pay him $700,000 if he makes the major league roster, and he’s not concerned that he only signed Tuesday. Benitez is fully focused on making the most of his opportunity.
“I didn’t think about it,” said Benitez. “I’m here to help the team the moment they need me. I was working out in the Dominican to be ready the moment I came into the United States.”
Benitez has 289 saves over a 14-year major league career with six teams. He split last season between San Francisco and Florida, posting a 2-8 record with a 5.37 ERA and 17 saves. He was hampered by an injured hamstring.
“Last season is really hard to talk about but it was real complicated being hurt because nobody wants to be hurt,” said Benitez, “Especially me because I want the ball all the time.”
Benitez said Toronto’s offer was his best chance to make a team this year.
This team is great, they have great personalities,” Benitez said. “Yes it’s true, my best first day in camp.”
Benitez said he hopes to get into a simulated game within a week.
Notes: Toronto Closer B.J. Ryan (left elbow) is ready for his first appearance of the spring against the Rays on Friday. “I’m looking forward to getting out there and finally getting a chance to do it,” he said. “There is a lot of hard work behind it so I am just going out there and try and make some pitches.” Ryan had season ending ligament replacement surgery last May.
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