Mariners reliever Santos likely out for opener

Votto, Blue Jays reach minor-league deal

Newly acquired Seattle Mariners reliever Gregory Santos threw a light bullpen session Friday, his first since experiencing right lat soreness after throwing off a mound at the the start of spring training three weeks ago.

Jerry Dipoto, the team’s president of baseball operations, has indicated that Santos won’t be ready for opening day in three weeks but should pitch in April. Santos had been playing catch the past week.

The Mariners got the hard-throwing 24-year-old Dominican from the White Sox in a trade at the beginning of February. Santos had a 3.39 ERA with five saves in 60 appearances last year in his rookie season with Chicago. He pitched in five games combined the previous two seasons for San Francisco. three seasons.

World Series MVP shortstop Corey Seager had sports hernia surgery Jan. 30, and is expected to miss most of spring training, though there is hope that he could play in Arizona before the end of camp.

All-Star third baseman Josh Jung strained his left calf at the start of camp. He has resumed baseball activity, but hasn’t played in any Cactus League games.

AP Joey Votto has finally found work. The former NL MVP for the Reds says he has agreed to a minor league contract with his hometown Toronto Blue Jays. Votto, 40, became a free agent after the end of a $251.5 million, 12-year contract.