The Hall of Fame ballot is out, and the slam dunk among the ballot's first-time players is Yankees closer Mariano Rivera, who had 652 career saves with one pitch, a cut fastball that was deadly. Members of the Baseball Writers' Association of America will start their deliberations and their ballots are due Dec. 31. The Hall of Fame announcement is Jan. 22 and the induction ceremony is July 29 in Cooperstown, N.Y. Here is a look at the key first-timers on the ballot: * Mariano Rivera - Closers...

Lance Berkman, a free agent first baseman/designated hitter who drew mild interest from the Orioles, has agreed to terms on a one-year contract with the Texas Rangers, according to FOXSports.com. Berkman reportedly will receive $11 million guaranteed, including a $1 million buyout, and his contract includes a vesting option for 2014. The Orioles kicked the tires on Berkman, but he figured to sign with the Rangers if he decided to put off retirement. He lives in Houston and preferred to stay...