After indications earlier in the day that left-hander Ted Lilly was close to signing a minor league deal with the San Francisco Giants, a source has confirmed to MLB Daily Dish that the deal hit a last-minute snag and is now considered doubtful.
Although the sides were very close to an agreement earlier in the day, the Giants issued a statement that medical concerns were the root of the problem:
From Giants: "Update: Upon reviewing Ted Lilly's medical history we are going to hold off on pursuing a minor league contract right now."
— Andrew Baggarly (@CSNBaggs) August 6, 2013
Sources indicate that Lilly is completely healthy and ready to pitch, but the Giants may have raised concerns due the medical problems Lilly has endured throughout the season.
While the status of the Lilly-to-Giants talks may change in the next couple of days, the chances of the two sides agreeing to terms are considered unlikely at this time. Lilly has received interest from many teams and will likely look elsewhere for a similar opportunity if he cannot come to terms with the Giants.
Lilly, 37, was released by the Dodgers over the weekend after being designated for assignment on July 25th. The veteran made just five starts for with Los Angeles on the season, posting an 0-2 record and a 5.09 ERA, 7.0 K/9, and 3.9 BB/9 in 23 innings of work. In fifteen major league seasons with the Expos (1999), Yankees (2000-2002), Athletics (2002-2003), Blue Jays (2004-2006), Cubs (2007-2010) and Dodgers (2010-2013), Lilly has posted a 130-113 record with a 4.14 ERA, 7.6 K/9, and 3.0 BB/9.
