Free agent right-handed pitcher Ervin Santana signed a one-year, $14 million deal with the Atlanta Braves.
Santana was added Wednesday, one day after general manager Frank Wren said Opening Day starter Kris Medlen was set for a second opinion to determine the extent of ligament damage in his pitching arm.
Santana, 31, was a popular name on the market during spring training. After going 9-10 wih a 3.24 ERA with the Kansas City Royals in 2013, Santana was considering signing with the Toronto Blue Jays or Baltimore Orioles.
Interest in Santana didn’t meet his contract expectations when free agency began in November.
Braves starting pitchers Mike Minor and Brandon Beachy are also expected to be unavailable at the start of the regular season due to injuries.