FOX Sports' Jon Morosi reported on Sunday that the Phillies have signed free agent RHP Zach Miner to a minor league deal with an invitation to major league spring training.
Miner, 30, has not appeared in a big league game since 2009. After being sidelined with an elbow ailment, Miner underwent Tommy John Surgery and missed the entire 2010 season. Since then, the former Detroit Tiger has been trying to reestablish his previous form.
During his time in the majors, the 6-foot-4 215-pounder posted a 25-20 record with a 4.24 ERA in 157 games (35 starts).
Last season in 29 minor league contests, Miner posted a 2-0 record along with a 2.79 ERA while striking out 23 and walking 22 in 42 innings pitched.
Even if Miner doesn't impact the big league roster right out of the gate, he's the type of hurler that is valuable to the organization. He can act as a backup to the 25-man roster with the Triple-A IronPigs, while helping younger pitchers grow and adapt to the higher levels of the game, much like Brian Sanches and Nelson Figueroa have done in recent years.
