Former Philadelphia Phillies closer Ryan Madson has agreed to a minor-league contract with the Kansas City Royals that includes an invitation to major-league spring training camp, a baseball source told ESPN.com.
Madson, 34, is 47-30 with a 3.59 ERA and 52 saves in eight career seasons with Philadelphia. He hasn't pitched in the major leagues since 2011 because of elbow problems.
 
Royals agree to minor-league deal with Ryan Madson
 
Madson assumed the closer's job in Philadelphia from Brad Lidge in 2011 and saved 32 games, but a reported four-year, $44 million deal fell through and sparked a disagreement between Phillies general manager Ruben Amaro Jr. and Madson's former agent, Scott Boras.
The Phillies quickly changed course in November 2011 and signed Jonathan Papelbon to a four-year, $50 million deal.
Madson signed a one-year, $8.5 million contract with the Cincinnati Reds, but he underwent Tommy John surgery in spring training and missed the 2012 season. He made a failed comeback attempt with the Los Angeles Angels in 2013 and sat out the entire 2014 season.
Jerry Crasnick | ESPN.com
 

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