Pitcher Joe Blanton agrees to minor-league deal with the Royals

In an effort to bolster the depth of their starting rotation, the Royals agreed to a minor-league deal with veteran right-hander Joe Blanton, the team announced Friday.

Blanton, 34, received an invitation to big-league camp. Blanton did not pitch in the majors in 2014. Released by the Angels in March, he made two starts for Oakland’s Class AAA affiliate before receiving another release.

During the early portion of his career, Blanton was a valued contributor to playoff teams in Oakland and Philadelphia. His production waned as this decade began. Blanton carries a 5.09 ERA since 2010.

As an Angel in 2013, Blanton went 2-14 with a 6.04 ERA.

This story was originally published February 13, 2015 at 10:30 AM with the headline "Pitcher Joe Blanton agrees to minor-league deal with the Royals."