Kotchman, Delaney join Rays

First baseman Casey Kotchman has signed a minor league contract (with an invitation to major league spring training) with the Rays, who also claimed right-handed pitcher Rob Delaney off waivers from the Minnesota Twins today.

Kotchman, 27, hit .217 last year for Seattle and has a .259 career average. Delaney, 26, made one appearance for the Twins last season and had a 4.73 ERA in 80 innings at Triple-A.

Hot Rods also have new GM

The Biscuits aren't the only team in the Tampa Bay organization that will have a new general manager this year. The Bowling Green Hot Rods have hired Ryan Gates from the independent Lake County Crushers. Former GM Brad Taylor moved up to team president in December.

Rauch out as GM; former Terranova taking over

The Biscuits have a new general manager. Marla Terranova Vickers has been promoted to the GM role.

Greg Rauch, the team's GM since its inception, will remain as the team's president. He's also been heavily involved in the food operations service -- also owned Tom Dickson and Sherrie Myers -- that has clients nationwide.

Terranova Vickers, recently married, has also been with the Biscuits since they came to town.

Sonnanstine, Rays avoid arbitration

Pitcher Andy Sonnanstine and the Rays agreed on a one-year deal today and avoided going to arbitration. The contract is worth $912,000.

Rays, Upton avoid arbitration

Outfielder B.J. Upton will make $4.825 million this season after he and the Rays agreed on a one-year contract to avoid an arbitration hearing.