Dodgers sign pitcher Jamey Wright to minor league deal

GLENDALE, Ariz. (AP) The Los Angeles Dodgers have signed veteran pitcher Jamey Wright to a minor league deal.

The 41-year-old right-hander sat out last season after being released by Texas at the end of spring training.

Wright pitched for the Dodgers in 2012 and again in 2014, mostly in a relief role although he started one game in his second season. Between those two stints he pitched for Tampa Bay, where current Dodgers president of baseball operations Andrew Friedman worked.

Wright has also pitched for Colorado, Milwaukee, St. Louis, Kansas City, San Francisco, the Cubs, Cleveland and Seattle. He would be in his 20th season in the majors if he makes the Dodgers' roster. He was a first-round draft pick of the Rockies in 1993.

Wright said he decided to return to baseball after playing catch in December with Dodgers ace and fellow Dallas native Clayton Kershaw.

''He was throwing on a line and I was getting the ball back the same way he was, right on that line,'' said Wright. ''I didn't throw as hard as him, but at my age, to feel the way I do, I'm excited.

''I'm not here to babysit. I still have the desire to win a World Series. That's why I'm here.''

Wright threw a bullpen session Wednesday.

''Not many people at 41 are in the type of shape Jamey is, which is a testament to him,'' Kershaw said. ''I'm happy he gets another shot at making the team.''

Led by closer Kenley Jansen, the Dodgers' relief corps is crowded with younger talent, making Wright a long-shot to earn a spot.