Twins sign pitcher Pavano to 2-year deal

MINNEAPOLIS, Jan. 19 (UPI) -- The Minnesota Twins and right-handed starting pitcher Carl Pavano have agreed on a two-year, $16.5 million contract, the team announced Wednesday.

Pavano, who played a key role in the Twins' run to the 2010 American League Central crown, will receive $8 million in the upcoming season and $8.5 million in 2012, the Minneapolis Star Tribune reported.

The deal also includes innings-pitched incentives in 2012 that could net Pavano an extra $500,000.

Pavano, 35, compiled a 17-11 record with a 3.75 ERA in 32 starts last year for the Twins, firmly regaining his status as one of baseball's top starters after four injury-plagued seasons with the New York Yankees from 2005-08.

He mounted a comeback year with the Cleveland Indians and Twins in 2009. Minnesota acquired him in August 2009 and he went 5-4 with a 4.64 ERA over 12 starts, finishing at 14-12.

Over 12 seasons with the Montreal Expos, Florida Marlins, Yankees, Indians and Twins, Pavano has racked up a 97-89 record with a 4.34 ERA in 258 games.