Hairston breaks finger in exhibition opener

Fort Lauderdale, Fla. — Baltimore Orioles second baseman Jerry Hairston broke his right ring finger Thursday in an exhibition game against the Florida Marlins, leaving his status for opening day in doubt.

The injury occurred in the first inning of the Orioles’ first game of spring. Hairston hit a leadoff single against Josh Beckett, stole second base and then broke a bone in his knuckle while stealing third.

Hairston eventually scored, but was pulled and sent to a hand specialist. He returned after the Orioles’ 6-5 win with a splint on his finger and a discouraged look on his face.

Twins, Nathan agree on two-year contract

Fort Myers, Fla. — The Minnesota Twins signed right-handed reliever Joe Nathan to a two-year contract Thursday in a complicated deal that will pay him more if he becomes the team’s closer this season.

Nathan, speaking in the clubhouse before Minnesota’s exhibition opener against Boston, said he was unsure of the specifics. The Twins did not disclose terms and neither did Nathan’s agent, Dave Pepe.

Brewers sign Podsednik

The Milwaukee Brewers reached contract agreements with outfielder Scott Podsednik, runner-up for NL rookie of the year, and infielder Keith Ginter Thursday. Podsednik’s one-year deal is worth $400,000 if he stays in the major leagues, but would drop to $300,000 if he struggles and is sent to the minors this season.