Astros keep adding to pen, sign Lyon for three years

MLB.com’s Brian McTaggert reports that the Astros and Brandon Lyon have come to terms on a deal, pending a physical. The Astros lost LaTroy Hawkins earlier in the day because of an unwillingness to guarantee him a second year. They almost certainly had to in order to sign Lyon, and they probably paid a premium over what Hawkins would have cost, though they are getting a younger pitcher by making the switch. Lyon could well get the closer’s role over fellow new acquisiton Matt Lindstrom to begin the season. That’s what salaries would dictate. However, considering that Lyon is someone who can come in with men on base and Lindstrom really isn’t, it may well make more sense to reserve Lindstrom for the ninth. Update: FOXSports.com is reporting that Lyon is getting $15 million for three years.