Twins give Harden a shot with minor-league deal


(Jason O. Watson-USA TODAY Sports)

The Minnesota Twins signed right-hander Rich Harden on Friday to a minor-league contract with an invitation to their major-league camp in spring training.

Harden, 31, will attempt a comeback from rotator cuff surgery on his throwing shoulder last Jan. 31 that sidelined him for the 2012 season.

The injury-plagued Harden has struggled to stay healthy throughout his career. He has managed to pitch more than 150 innings in a season only once.

Harden’s best season was with the Chicago Cubs in 2008 when he posted a 10-2 record with a 2.07 ERA and 181 strikeouts in 148 innings. His career record is 160-59 with Oakland, the Cubs and Texas.

He last pitched for the Athletics in 2011, going 4-4 in 15 games and 82 2/3 innings.