Rays sign veteran closer Craig Kimbrel in bid to reinforce bullpen depth

The Tampa Bay Rays signed veteran closer Craig Kimbrel, 37, to a major league contract on Tuesday after he was designated for assignment by the New York Mets. Kimbrel, a nine-time All-Star with 440 career saves — fifth all-time in MLB history — posted a 6.00 ERA in 14 appearances with the Mets this season. The Rays also placed right-hander Jesse Scholtens on the 15-day injured list with a right wrist strain to open a roster spot for Kimbrel.