Angels rumors: Dan Haren open to return

The Los Angeles Angels are expected to decline Dan Haren’s $15.5 million option this offseason, but the right-hander is open to returning to the club on a less expensive one-year deal, reports Mike DiGiovanna of the Los Angeles Times:

"I'm not looking to break the bank, I'm not looking to sign a Zack Greinke deal," Haren said. "I'm looking for whatever is fair. I'll have to see what happens. Players work hard to get to free agency. I've played nine years, and if I become a free agent, it would be stupid not to take advantage of that."

It was reported last week that the Angels were leaning toward cutting ties with Haren and fellow right-hander Ervin Santana this winter. LA would then turn its attention to signing Greinke, who’s set to hit the open market following the season, to a long-term extension.

The Angels acquired Haren from the Arizona Diamondbacks in July of 2010. The 32-year-old had a solid track record with the club entering the 2012 campaign, but he was slowed early in the season by a back injury.

Over 30 starts spanning 176 2/3 innings this year Haren’s maintained an ERA of 4.33. Over 10 seasons in the majors he’s posted an ERA of 3.66.