Hamels to join Padres on minor league contract

Left-hander Cole Hamels has reportedly agreed to a minor league contract with his hometown San Diego Padres that will pay him $2 million if he reaches the big league roster, according to two people with knowledge of the deal.

People with knowledge of the deal told the Associated Press on condition of anonymity that the deal is contingent on Hamels passing a physical.

The former World Series MVP is expected to report this weekend to spring training in Peoria, Arizona.

Hamels made one start for the Atlanta Braves in 2020 and hasn’t pitched since then. He had shoulder surgery in 2021.

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The 39-year-old Hamels, who went to Rancho Bernardo High, was a first-round draft pick by Philadelphia in 2002 and was the MVP of the 2008 World Series with the Phillies.

He pitched for the Phillies for 10 seasons and also was with Texas and the Chicago Cubs. He is 163-122 with a 3.43 ERA and 2,560 strikeouts in 15 seasons.