NEW YORK (AP) — A person familiar with the negotiations says right-hander Luis Severino avoided an arbitration hearing with the New York Yankees, agreeing to a $40 million, four-year contract. The person tells The Associated Press that Severino's deal includes a team option for 2023 that could make the deal worth $52.25 million for five seasons. If the option is not exercised, Severino would be eligible for free agency after the 2022 season.
ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. (AP) — Detroit beat pitcher Michael Fulmer in the final salary arbitration case this year, leaving players with a 6-4 final record in decisions. Fulmer was awarded a raise from $575,200 to $2.8 million. He had asked for $3.4 million. Fulmer was the 2016 AL Rookie of the Year and an All-Star in 2017. Fulmer was 3-12 with a 4.69 ERA in 132 1/3 innings last year.
UNDATED (AP) — The Denver Broncos have notified Brandon Marshall they don't plan to pick up his option. Marshall will become an unrestricted free agent next month. The 29-year-old linebacker has dealt with leg injuries in two of the last three seasons. Meanwhile, the Buffalo Bills have released underperforming and high-priced veteran tight end Charles Clay.
TUSCALOOSA, Ala. (AP) — Steve Sarkisian is returning to Alabama as offensive coordinator, a position he held for the 2016 team in the national championship game loss to Clemson. Alabama coach Nick Saban has announced the hiring of Sarkisian and six other assistants, along with the promotion of Pete Golding to defensive coordinator. Sarkisian had left Alabama to become offensive coordinator for the Atlanta Falcons but was fired after a 7-9 season.
NAPLES, Fla. (AP) — Sandy Lyle and Stephen Ames matched the course record at 8-under 63 to share the first-round lead today in the PGA Tour Champions' Chubb Classic. Lyle topped a leaderboard for the first time in 155 career starts on the 50-and-over tour. The 61-year-old Scot won the 1985 British Open and 1988 Masters. Ames had a hole-in-one with a 9-iron on the 141-yard 12th hole at The Classics at Lely Resort. Jay Haas had a 64.
