Kansas City, MO (SportsNetwork.com) – The Kansas City Royals have signed
infielder Ryan Roberts to a minor league deal with an invite to major league
spring training.
Roberts, 34, appeared in eight games last season for the Boston Red Sox, but
managed just two hits in 22 at-bats. However, he did hit .277 with seven
homers, 32 RBI and a .337 on-base percentage in 72 games for Triple-A
Pawtucket.
A career .243 hitter, Roberts has racked up 46 homers, 169 RBI and 35 stolen
bases over parts of nine seasons with Toronto, Texas, Arizona, Tampa Bay and
Boston.
The Royals also signed relief pitcher Joe Paterson to a minor league deal with
an invite to spring training. The left-hander appeared in just three games
last season with the Diamondbacks, posting a lofty 33.75 ERA. In 73 career
games, all with Arizona, Paterson is 0-3 with a 6.25 ERA.
