The Royals and closer Greg Holland avoided salary arbitration Friday when they agreed to an $8.25 million, one-year contract shortly before their hearing, and Kansas City gave free agent right-hander Joe Blanton a minor league deal. Holland would receive a $100,000 assignment bonus if he is traded - a possibility given the number of pricy power arms in the back of the Royals bullpen. Holland had seven saves and a 0.82 ERA in the postseason, helping the Royals reach Game 7 of the World Series before losing to San Francisco. The Royals had offered $6.65 million. More...