Welp, the Padresmade it Facebook Official, they signed Joaquin Benoit after he passed his physical. It's been 10 days since the deal was agreed upon between the two parties and announced to the public. That must have been a very thorough physical, with lots of head turning and coughing. The real news is that they decided to make room for Benoit by designating Adys Portillo for assignment.
Padres finalize two-year contract with Joaquin Benoit | padres.com: News
Ten days after agreeing to a two-year contract with free-agent relief pitcher Joaquin Benoit, the Padres officially consummated the deal on Saturday. In addition, the club designated right-handed pitcher Adys Portillo for assignment.
Padres beat writer Corey Brock says of Portillo:
Portillo was limited in '13 due to triceps tenderness + strained lat. Dearth of position guys in system = arms a bit easier to part with.
— Corey Brock (@FollowThePadres) December 28, 2013He also says Padres GM Josh Byrnes is still on the look out for more arms for the bullpen.
#Padres GM Byrnes said the team will still try to add a bullpen arm or two, maybe a LOOGY. Floated idea of Luebke possibly as he works back.
— Corey Brock (@FollowThePadres) December 28, 2013