Oliver, Rangers finalize $3.5M, 1-year deal

Reliever Darren Oliver and the Texas Rangers finalized a $3.5 million, one-year contract that includes a club option for 2011.

After spending the past three seasons with the Los Angeles Angels, Oliver starts his third stint with Texas. The 39-year-old left-hander began his career with the Rangers, pitching for them from 1993-98. He was back with Texas from 2000-01.

Oliver was 5-1 with a 2.71 ERA in 63 games last season. His deal includes a $3 million salary next year and a $3.25 million option for 2011 with a $500,000 buyout. The second year of the contract would become guaranteed if Oliver makes 59 appearances next season.

``Darren's been one of the most effective, reliable relievers in the game over the past few years,'' Rangers general manager Jon Daniels said Tuesday. ``We know him well from his previous time with the organization and having faced him more recently, and we're thrilled to add him to our staff.''