The Jays announced a one-year extension for team president Paul Beeston, who will retire after the 2015 season. Elsewhere, the Mariners and Bud Norris agreed on a one-year deal to avoid arbitration.
The Toronto Blue Jays announced a one-year extension for team president Paul Beeston on Monday, ending the speculation that they would hire current Orioles GM Dan Duquette for the same role.
The Jays chased Duquette for much of the offseason but couldn't come to an agreement with the Orioles, who wanted a steep return as compensation for Duquette's departure.
Beeston will retire after the 2015 campaign, but the Blue Jays offered no comment on their plans for a successor. The 69-year-old Beeston was Toronto's team president from 1991 to 1997 before serving as the president and CEO for MLB from 1997 to 2002. He has been the Jays' current president since 2009.
Norris, Orioles avoid arbitration
Right-hander Bud Norris and the Orioles avoided arbitration Monday, agreeing to terms on a one-year, $8.8 million deal, according to Dan Connolly of the Baltimore Sun.
Norris had a strong campaign for Baltimore in 2014, finishing with a 3.65 ERA and 4.22 FIP along with 139 strikeouts and 52 walks in 28 starts. The 29-year-old was entering his final year of arbitration after earning $5.3 million in 2014 and will be a free agent next offseason.
Mariners sign Chavez
The Mariners officially announced the signing of Endy Chavez on a one-year contract. Chavez's deal includes an invite to major league spring training, and if he makes Seattle's big league roster, the 13-year veteran will earn $750,000 and can make up to $400,000 more based on plate appearance bonuses.
The 36-year-old Chavez hit .276/.317/.371 for the Mariners in 2014 over 80 games. He can play all three outfield positions.
Padres ink Pena
Ramiro Pena signed a minor-league deal with the Padres that includes an invite to big league spring training, the team announced Monday.
Pena had an impressive season for the Braves in 2013 before having season-ending surgery on a torn labrum in his right shoulder. The 29-year-old hit just .245/.304/.347 in 81 games for Atlanta in 2014 and can play at three different spots in the infield, including shortstop.