The Toronto Blue Jays have officially signed 41-year old Darren Oliver to a one year contract for 2012 worth $4.0 million. The contract also includes a club option for $3.0 million in 2013, with a $0.5 million buyout. Darren's agent is former Jay Jeff Frye, who is probably best remembered for hitting a cycle on August 17, 2001. Coincidentally, the pitcher tagged for the loss in that game was none other than Darren Oliver, who started for the Texas Rangers. Darren was a modified type B free agent, meaning that the Jays will not need to forfeit any picks for this signing.

In order to free up a spot on the 40-man roster, veteran infielder/outfielder Mark Teahen (affectionately known around here as "Coffeecock") was designated for assignment. In his brief time in Toronto (27 games) he hit .190/.261/.286 over 47 plate apperances. He sent a nice parting note through his Twitter account:

BlueJays are a class org. Players & Coaches r great & Alex A is a man of his word. Excited 4 bigger role elsewhere but thankful 4 time n TO

I hope he finds a Major League team to play on next year and wish him all the best.

Thanks to highvoltagerob for posting his Fanshot.