Tommy John Reaches Agreement With A’s

The Oakland A’s announced Monday that they have reached a contract agreement with ex-Angel Tommy John for the remainder of the 1985 season, but that John could not be signed because his contract with the Angels included a loan of about $250,000.

A major league rule does not permit a player to be under contract to one club while in debt to another. The A’s, General Manager Sandy Alderson said, have asked the commissioner’s office for assistance in settling the situation and are hopeful it will be resolved today.

“I don’t think the Angels are taking advantage of the situation,” Alderson said when asked if the Angels are attempting to hold up John’s signing by a Western Division rival. “I don’t think their interest is anything more than prudent business.”

Said Angel General Manager Mike Port: “I have no comment other than to say there are certain rules, and it’s up to everyone to abide by them.”

John, whose debt is small compared to the $1.1 million the Angels owed him in guaranteed salary when he was released, received permission from the commissioner’s office to begin working out with the A’s Monday. He said he will be ready to pitch after the All-Star break, but he may make two or three appearances with an A’s farm club before debuting with the varsity.