Rangers to Add Joakim Soria on two-year deal

Soria had Tommy John surgery in early April for the second time in his career

Joakim Soria missed the entire 2012 season with Tommy John surgery, but pending a physical the veteran right-hander has agreed to a two-year deal with the Texas Rangers.

Joe Nathan is currently the Rangers closer and Soria would likely serve as his setup man.

Soria, who turns 29 in May, had the surgery on April 3.

The Rangers entered the  winter meetings with three bullpen spots open. Mike Adams and Koji Uehara are free agents, and Alexi Ogando was moved into the starting rotation. Soria may not be ready for the start of the season.

Soria was among baseball’s elite closers having saved 40+ games in 2008 and in 2010. Over his career Soria has pitched to a 2.40 ERA and saved 160 games.

The Rangers have been linked to a number of free agents and trade possibilities on the first day of the 2012 MLB Winter Meetings, including Josh Hamilton, Adam LaRoche, and Zack Greinke.

However, the Dodgers seem determined to sign Greinke no matter the cost, reports Jon Heyman of CBS Sports. James Shields of Tampa Bay could be a secondary option for the Rangers should they miss out on Greinke.