Giants sign Ramon Ortiz

Not to be confused with Russ Ortiz, the Giants have inked yet another veteran with quality big league experience to a minor league deal, Ramon Ortiz.

Most Giants fans probably remember Ortiz as that damned Angels pitcher who won Game 3 of the 2002 world series. All will be forgiven if he leads the Giants to a world series title this year...

OK, but really, what to expect from him. He pitched in Japan last year after bouncing between the Reds, Nats, Twins, and Rockies from 2005-2007 as a #5 to spot starter and long relief. He hasn't been good in a while; as a matter of fact, his numbers over that time period resembles Kevin Correia.

Ortiz spent the first 6 seasons of his career with the Angels and had early success. From 2001-2003, he went 44-33 with an ERA near 4, almost 2/1 K/BB, and Whip in the 1.3 range. Not bad but that was a while ago.

Ortiz is a long shot to make any roster this spring, but the Giants is pretty much the worst for him. I can't imagine he has visions of starting here so maybe as the long reliever and spot starter. Chances are he pitches in Fresno and gets a few mid season call ups. Competition there is between Pat Misch and...well Pat Misch. Unless the Giants decide to use one of Kevin Pucetas options for a mid season 10-15 days. Only time will tell but this is a good move. Worst that could happen is he sucks this spring and goes away.