Red Sox officially announce Smoltz signing

BOSTON -- The Boston Red Sox have officially announced the signing of veteran righthander John Smoltz, who joins the team after major offseason shoulder surgery.

Smoltz was scheduled to appear at a news conference later Tuesday.

A preliminary agreement was reached last week on the deal, which is believed to be for one year and $5.5 million, with an added $5 million in possible performance bonuses.

The 41-year-old Smoltz has 210 wins, 154 saves and a 3.26 ERA in a 20-year career with the Atlanta Braves. Last season, he was 3-2 with a 2.57 ERA before hitting the disabled list in June.

Smoltz said Monday he would be a starter this year once he's ready to pitch for Boston. He said the team intends to make sure he's strong enough to be effective at the end of the year and into the playoffs.