Penny agrees to deal with the Giants

Brad Penny and the Giants agreed to a minor league contract Monday night, adding another proven arm to San Francisco’s strong rotation for the stretch run.

Penny cleared waivers after he was released by Boston last week. Because he reached a deal with San Francisco by Aug. 31, he is eligible for postseason play with the Giants.

San Francisco, idle Monday before opening a series at Philadelphia today, is tied with Colorado for the National League wild-card lead and looking to reach the playoffs for the first time since 2003.

Penny is expected to pitch Wednesday against the NL East-leading Phillies.

The 31-year-old right-hander was cut by the Red Sox on Thursday after going 7-8 with a 5.61 earned-run average, including 1-6 in his last 11 starts. Boston signed the two-time All-Star to a $5-million, one-year contract last winter after he spent four-plus seasons with the Dodgers.

Beltran to return

Carlos Beltran is set to begin a minor league rehabilitation assignment.

The New York Mets’ All-Star center fielder, sidelined since June 22 because of a bone bruise on his right knee, was examined by David Altchek, the team’s medical director, and cleared to play without a knee brace.

Beltran is scheduled to be in the lineup Wednesday night for Class-A Brooklyn against Hudson Valley.