In a winter meetings stunner, free agent RHP Gil Meche is close to signing with Royals. Meche, 28, has chosen the Royals over the Cubs and Blue Jays. The Royals also have made a 3-year, $24 million offer to free agent right-hander Miguel Batista. But Meche’s deal is expected to be for more years and more money. The Blue Jays offered Meche a contract for 4 years and $40 million, according to a major league scource.
Meche pitched to an 11-8 record and a 4.48 ERA in 32 starts for the Mariners last season.