Royals sign veteran Madson to minor league deal

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) The Royals have signed veteran right-hander Ryan Madson to a minor league contract that includes an invitation to spring training.

The 34-year-old Madson hasn't pitched in the big leagues since 2011, when he was 4-2 with a 2.37 ERA and 29 saves for the Phillies. He signed a one-year deal with Cincinnati for the following season, but he was forced to undergo Tommy John surgery in spring training.

Madson attempted a comeback with the Angels last season but made only one appearance for Class-A Inland Empire before hurting his elbow again.

Madson is 47-30 with a 3.59 ERA and 52 saves in 491 big league appearances.