The Final 9

AL MVP Joe Mauer agreed to an eight-year, $184 million contract extension with Minnesota on Sunday that includes a full no-trade clause. The catcher is a three-time batting champion.

Former American League MVP Nomar Garciaparra retired as a member of the Boston Red Sox Wednesday. The six-time All-Star signed a one-day contract with his former team and then announced he's ending his 14-year career.

Top draft pick Stephen Strasburg made his spring training debut for the Washington Nationals, pitching two scoreless innings Tuesday against the Detroit Tigers.

Cincinnati Reds left-hander Aroldis Chapman made his spring training debut Monday, working two scoreless innings in a 14-5 victory over Kansas City. The 22-year-old Cuban defector reached 100 mph at least three times on the radar gun.

Twins closer Joe Nathan has been diagnosed with an elbow injury that could cost him the 2010 season.

The Giants and ace Tim Lincecum work out a contract agreement on Friday before the two sides are scheduled for arbitration. The two-time reigning NL Cy Young Award winner will get $23 million plus bonuses over the next two years.

Tom Glavine made his retirement official Thursday after 22 big league seasons. The lefthander won two Cy Young awards and led the Braves to the 1995 World Series title. He has been hired as a special assistant to the Braves team president.