Twins land veteran pitcher Ortiz

The Twins struck a deal with talented but emotional righthander Ramon Ortiz and hope he's his 2002-03 self.

By La Velle E. Neal III, Star Tribune

Last update: January 19, 2007 - 7:43 PM

The Twins will sign righthander Ramon Ortiz to a one-year deal worth around $3.1 million. The deal is contingent on Ortiz passing his physical.

Ortiz, 33, was 11-16 with a 5.57 ERA last season with Washington. He broke into the majors with the Angels in 1999 and has a career record of 79-76. His best season was 2002 when he was 15-9 with a 3.77 ERA for the Angels.

The Twins' 2007 rotation now could consist of Johan Santana, Ortiz, Sidney Ponson, Carlos Silva and Boof Bonser. The Twins signed Ponson to a minor league deal earlier this month.

Pitchers and catchers report on Feb. 18.

La Velle E. Neal III • lneal@startribune.com