Valenzuela to pitch in minors

Fernando Valenzuela, waived last Friday by the California Angels, has agreed to a minor-league contract with California. Valenzuela's agent, Tony DeMarco, his attorney, Dick Moss, and Angels senior vice president Dan O'Brien came to terms Wednesday on a deal that will send the left-hander to the minors for at least 30 days.

DeMarco said Valenzuela's first pitching assignment will be tonight for Midland of the Class AA Texas League. The left-hander is expected to pitch several games before reporting to Class AAA Edmonton in the Pacific Coast League.

"We agreed that he'll pitch in the minors for a period of 30 days after his first start or until Aug. 23, whichever comes first," DeMarco said.