Luke Scott

Luke Scott confirmed to Marc Topkin of the St. Petersburg Times that he has agreed to a one-year contract with the Rays which includes a club option for 2013.

The dollar amount isn’t yet known, but Scott said that the contract includes some incentives. He expects to serve as the primary designated hitter, which marks the end of Johnny Damon’s tenure in Tampa Bay, and also play some first base. The 33-year-old underwent season-ending surgery on his right shoulder last July, but has been hitting off a tee for six weeks and just started a throwing program. “There’s no reason why I shouldn’t be ready for opening day,” said Scott.

Dan Connolly of the Baltimore Sun reports that the Rays have signed Luke Scott to a one-year deal with a club option for 2013, pending a physical.

Exact terms aren’t yet available. Scott was non-tendered by the Orioles last month after batting just .220/.301/.402 with nine home runs and 22 RBI across 236 plate appearances in 2011. The 33-year-old is working his way back from surgery to repair a torn labrum in his right shoulder, but he has a chance to be an excellent bounceback candidate. Look for him to take over the DH spot.

Marc Topkin of the St. Petersburg Times reports that the Rays appear to be moving close to a deal with free agent Luke Scott.

Topkin reported the club’s interest in Scott on Tuesday. The 33-year-old was limited to just 64 games last season with a right shoulder injury which eventually required surgery, but he hit 23 homers or more from 2008-2010. If healthy, he would be a nice fit in the Rays’ lineup.

Marc Topkin of the St. Petersburg Times reports that the Rays have “talked about” free agent Luke Scott.

The Rays are expected to acquire two hitters, most likely at DH and first base, prior to spring training. Scott could prove to be a bargain coming off a down season and shoulder surgery. The 33-year-old was non-tendered by the Orioles in December, but they have expressed interest in bringing him back. Johnny Damon and Carlos Pena are among the other possibilites for the Rays.

Eduardo A. Encina of the Baltimore Sun reports that the Orioles “have not made a push” to re-sign Luke Scott.

The O’s non-tendered Scott last month but reportedly were interested in bringing him back at a lesser rate than what he would earn in arbitration. Evidently they now appear willing to let him walk, though. MASN’s Roch Kubatko reported Tuesday that 11 teams were expressing interest in the 33-year-old. Scott batted just .220/.301/.402 with nine home runs and 22 RBI across 236 plate appearances in 2011 and is coming off shoulder surgery, but he could pay off on a deal for low guaranteed money if he remains healthy.