Marlins win derby for slugger Delgado

By wire services
Published January 26, 2005

MIAMI - Carlos Delgado wanted to play for a contender, and the Marlins look like one now.

The free-agent first baseman agreed Tuesday to a $52-million, four-year contract. The deal, which includes an option year making it potentially worth $64-million over five seasons, is contingent on Delgado passing a physical today.

Florida outbid the Mets, Orioles and Rangers.

"It's a spectacular day for the franchise," owner Jeffrey Loria said. "I'm going to spring training tomorrow. I'm not waiting."

Delgado, 32, hit at least 30 homers each of the past eight seasons in Toronto. Last season he batted .269 with 32 homers and 99 RBIs, bouncing back from an injury-plagued first half by batting .305 and slugging .625 after the All-Star break.

The Marlins also named Mike Gazda the team's media relations manager.

URBINA KIDNAPPING: Venezuelan kidnappers holding the mother of Tigers pitcher Ugueth Urbina have demanded $3-million in ransom but have not contacted her family in at least a month, Venezuelan police said.

Ten police detectives in an antikidnapping unit are on the case and believe Maura Villarreal, 54, is still being held hostage. Police said the strategy of making no contact is a common ploy by kidnappers in the South American country.

DODGERS: Right-hander Scott Erickson agreed to a minor-league contract. Erickson, 36, is 141-132 in 13 seasons. ... Jim Lett, bullpen coach the past four seasons, was promoted to bench coach.

TWINS: Left-hander C.J. Nitkowski agreed to a minor-league contract.

[Last modified January 26, 2005, 00:14:07]