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James Shields, Padres Agree To $75M Deal

James Shields is pictured throwing during the first inning of Game 5 of baseball's World Series against the San Francisco Giants, Oct. 26, 2014.
Associated Press
James Shields is pictured throwing during the first inning of Game 5 of baseball's World Series against the San Francisco Giants, Oct. 26, 2014.

Right-hander James Shields, who helped Kansas City reach the World Series last season, has agreed to a $75 million, four-year contract with the San Diego Padres.

The deal includes an option for 2019 and is subject to the successful completion of a physical, which is likely to take place Tuesday.

Shields is the latest addition by first-year general manager A.J. Preller, who in December added sluggers Matt Kemp, Justin Upton and Wil Myers, as well as Derek Norris and Will Middlebrooks.

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Shields was traded from Tampa Bay to Kansas City two years ago in a deal in which Myers, then the Royals' top prospect, was acquired by the Rays.

Shields was 14-8 with a 3.21 ERA last season and declined a $15.3 million qualifying offer from the Royals. He lost both of his World Series starts, outdueled each time by Madison Bumgarner.

By signing Shields, the Padres lose their first-round pick, 13th overall, in June's amateur draft. The Royals get an extra pick after the first round.

Shields projects to lead a rotation that also includes Tyson Ross, Andrew Cashner and Ian Kennedy. Several players will compete for the No. 5 spot during spring training.

An All-Star in 2011, Shields is 114-90 with a 3.72 ERA in nine seasons.