The Phillies have signed Jose Contreras to a one-year, $1.5 million deal.
Contreras, 38, struggled for the White Sox last year, going 5-14 with a 5.42 ERA, but picked it up when he was dealt to the Rockies for the stretch run, posting a 1.59 ERA in two starts and five bullpen appearances.
Contreras, who broke in with the Yankees in 2003, will likely be slated for a spot in the bullpen — especially if the team brings back Pedro Martinez, which they are considering, according to the News Journal.
“Jose is a versatile pitcher who will likely get stretched out in spring training as a starter, but our scouts feel he is best suited for a significant role in the bullpen,” Philadelphia GM Ruben Amaro Jr. said. “His competitiveness and durability are pluses and what he showed in his brief stint as a reliever in Colorado gives us reason to believe that he makes our pitching staff stronger.”