In another effort to shore up their bullpen from the left side, the Angels have agreed to a four-year deal with free agent Scott Downs, one of the Major Leagues' most durable relievers over the past five seasons for the Blue Jays.
A Type A free agent, the signing of Downs will cost the Halos a high Draft pick.
"We are pleased to announce the acquisition of Scott," Angels general manager Tony Reagins said. "He has competed at a very high level for several years, and his addition adds tremendous depth to our bullpen."
In 67 appearances for the Jays in 2010, Downs was 5-5 with a 2.64 ERA. He had 48 strikeouts against only 14 walks (three intentional) in 61 1/3 innings while allowing only 47 hits. His club-record 26 holds were tied for third in the American League.
Since 2007, Downs' 84 holds are third most among AL relievers and his 2.36 ERA is the lowest among southpaw relievers and fifth lowest overall in the AL.
The Downs signing comes on the heels of the acquisition of another left-hander, Hisanori Takahashi, who has the versatility to pitch in any role.
Downs, who turns 35 on March 17, is 27-28 in his career with a 3.79 ERA. He made his Major League debut in 2000 with the Cubs before moving to Montreal for two seasons. He joined Toronto in 2005 and led the AL in appearances in 2007 with 81.
Downs was lethal against left-handed hitters in 2010, holding them to a .152 batting average and .241 slugging mark. Righties batted .243 and slugged .354.
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Angels Sign LHP Reliever Scott Downs to Multiyear Deal 
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