MLB notes: Mike Trout, Mike Stanton renew contracts
The Los Angeles Angels renewed the contract of A.L. Rookie of the Year Mike Trout for $510,000, prompting an angry response from the outfielder’s agent.
Craig Landis said his client was disappointed with the decision announced Saturday. The salary is $20,000 above the major league minimum.
“During the process, on behalf of Mike, I asked only that the Angels compensate Mike fairly for his historic 2012 season, given his service time,” Landis said in a statement. “In my opinion, this contract falls well short of a ‘fair’ contract and I have voiced this to the Angels throughout the process. Nonetheless, the renewal of Mike’s contract will put an end (to) this discussion.”
Trout hit .326 with 30 homers and 83 RBIs, and led the majors with 129 runs and 49 steals.
• No doubt the transaction will be interpreted as yet another example of the Marlins’ frugality. Some will chalk it up as another reason why Giancarlo Stanton would never dream of staying in South Florida long-term.
The Marlins announced they renewed Stanton’s 2013 contract. Stanton, according to a union source, will earn $537,000, just $47,000 more than the major league minimum.
Ramirez leaves game with strained knee
Milwaukee Brewers third baseman Aramis Ramirez left a spring training game against the Los Angeles Angels with a strained left knee.
Ramirez snapped an 0-for-10 skid to start the spring with a bloop double down the left-field line in the third inning Saturday.
After time was called, Ramirez stepped off the bag and was met by the team trainer before walking slowly back to the dugout.
Mets making alternate plans for opening day
Mets manager Terry Collins still hopes to have Johan Santana ready for opening day. But if Santana is unavailable, Collins will turn to veteran Jon Niese.
Santana long tossed from 120 feet on Friday. Collins said he is still expected to throw batting practice Tuesday. On Thursday, Collins said he was still on track to make his spring training debut on March 10 or 11.
Around the league
San Francisco Giants pitcher Tim Lincecum was scratched from a start against the Chicago Cubs because of a blister on his right middle finger. … Kansas City pitcher Aaron Crow has agreed to a $1.28 million, one-year contract that represents the maximum 20 percent cut. … Cleveland All-Star closer Chris Perez hopes to recover from a shoulder injury in time for the Indians’ April 2 opener at Toronto. … St. Louis manager Mike Matheny was back in the dugout for Saturday’s game against Washington, one day after dealing with food poisoning and a herniated disk.