Spring Training Two Weeks Away, Baseball News

(Jupiter, FL) -- Spring training is just a few weeks away.  Cardinals pitchers and catchers are due to report in Jupiter, Florida two weeks from today, with the first workout February 20. The full squad arrives Tuesday, February 24. The Cards' first spring game is March 5th against Miami.

Cardinals Sign Villanueva To Minor-League Deal

(St. Louis, MO) -- The Cardinals have signed pitcher Carlos Villanueva to a minor-league contract with an invitation to spring training. The 31-year-old right-hander was 5-7 with a 4.64 ERA in 42 games for the Cubs last season. Villanueva has also pitched for Milwaukee and Toronto.

The Cardinals are adding some catching depth. They have acquired Michael Ohlman from the Orioles in exchange for cash. The 24-year-old hit .236 with two home runs in 113 games last season for Double-A Bowie. Ohlman was ranked Baltimore's 10th best prospect.

Cubs Claim Britton Off Waivers From Red Sox; Cardinals Sign Villanueva

(Chicago, IL) -- The Cubs have claimed pitcher Drake Britton off waivers from the Boston Red Sox. The 25-year-old left-hander was 1-1 with a 2.93 ERA in 25 games with the Sox over the last two seasons. Meanwhile, the St. Louis Cardinals have signed Carlos Villanueva to a minor league contract with an invitation to spring training. He went 5-7 with a 4.64 ERA last year with the Cubs.

White Sox Release Viciedo

(Chicago, IL) -- The White Sox are parting ways with outfielder Dayan Viciedo. The Pale Hose have released the 25-year-old after designating him for assignment late last month. Viciedo hit .231 with 21 homers and 58 RBI in 145 games for Chicago last season. The Sox also acquired pitcher Yency Almonte from the Angels as the player to be named later from an August 21st trade.