This is the December 21, 2012 news archive. View today's AL Central news and rumors.

AL Central News and Rumors

Indians agree to Minor League deal with Kazmir

Jordan Bastian, MLB.com

The Indians need rotation depth and are willing to roll the dice when it comes to certain reclamation projects. One such case appears to be left-hander Scott Kazmir.

ESPN.com news services, ESPN.com

Two-time All-Star pitcher Scott Kazmir has reached a minor league deal with the Cleveland Indians that includes an invitation to the big league camp, according to a report by the Cleveland Plain Dealer.

Associated Press, ESPN.com

The Toronto Blue Jays have claimed first baseman-outfielder Russ Canzler on waivers from the Cleveland Indians.

CNNSI.com

HOUSTON (AP) -- The Houston Astros signed veteran right-handed reliever Jose Veras to a one-year contract Friday.

Adam Berry, MLB.com

Shortstop Gustavo Nunez, picked by the Pirates in the 2011 Rule 5 Draft, returned to the Tigers organization on Friday, as the D-backs outrighted his contract to Triple-A Toledo.

Jason Beck, MLB.com

The Tigers have gone into Spring Training with a question mark at second base in each of the past three seasons. They were filled by different players each year, none of whom are currently with the club.

Scott Merkin, MLB.com

The pre-holiday White Sox question on the table today deals with the team's ability to contend in the American League Central for the 2013 season. It was the same question on the table last Friday and will carry through into the new year.

CNNSI.com

Three teams have contacted Tigers about Rick Porcello

Rhett Bollinger, MLB.com

Left-hander Scott Diamond underwent surgery to remove a bone chip from his left elbow on Tuesday, but will be ready for Spring Training, the Twins announced Friday.

ESPN.com news services, ESPN.com

Veteran left-hander Francisco Liriano, after five-and-a-half seasons with the Minnesota Twins, will join his third team in five months after agreeing to a two-year, $14 million deal with the Pittsburgh Pirates, according to the Minneapolis Star-Tribune.

Rhett Bollinger, MLB.com

The Twins are set to take a chance with oft-injured right-hander Rich Harden, as they signed him to a Minor League deal with an invitation to Spring Training on Friday.