Braves sign Veras, Capps to join bullpen battle in spring

ATLANTA (AP) The Atlanta Braves have signed two more veteran right-handed relievers to minor league deals, giving Jose Veras and Matt Capps a chance to audition for bullpen jobs in spring training.

The 34-year-old Veras combined for 21 saves with Houston and Detroit in 2013. But he lasted only 12 games with the Chicago Cubs last season before being released. He finished in Houston, going 4-0 with a 3.03 ERA in 34 games.

The 31-year-old Capps has 138 career saves, including a career-best 42 while splitting the 2010 season between Washington and Minnesota. He hasn't pitched in the big leagues since 2012 because of shoulder problems.

Veras and Capps will contend for jobs with Jason Grilli and Jim Johnson, as well as another non-roster invitee with big league experience, Michael Kohn.