R.A. Dickey to Toronto official

EAGER FOR a new challenge and a better chance to win, R.A. Dickey broke the news of his trade even before the Toronto Blue Jays and New York Mets.

A few minutes ahead of the teams announcing the seven-player swap Monday that sent the NL Cy Young winner to Toronto, he tweeted his thanks to Mets fans and added he was all set to pitch for the Blue Jays.

"Now that it's official, I want to say that I don't have the words to express how grateful I am to you for the steadfast support," Dickey posted on Twitter. "Thank you for making me feel wanted.

"Looking forward to a new chapter with the Jays."

Toronto acquired the 38-year-old knuckleballer and catchers Josh Thole and Mike Nickeas. The Mets got top catching prospect Travis d'Arnaud and catcher John Buck, plus minor league righthander Noah Syndergaard and outfielder Wuilmer Becerra.

Earlier in the day, Dickey and the busy Blue Jays agreed to a new contract. Dickey was already signed for $5.25 million next year. His new contract adds two more seasons for $25 million - he will get $12 million in both 2014 and 2015, plus there's a club option for 2016 at $12 million with a $1 million buyout.

Free-agent Nick Swisher is in Cleveland to meet with the Indians, who have a hole to fill in rightfield.

* The Detroit Tigers have agreed to a 5-year contract with righthander Anibal Sanchez.

Detroit acquired the 28-year-old Venezuelan in July from Miami. He is 48-51 with a 3.75 ERA since making his major league debut with the Marlins in 2006.

* Two people with knowledge of the negotiations told the Associated Press that Oakland agreed to sign shortstop Hiroyuki Nakajima of Japan's Seibu Lions.

* Free-agent shortstop Steven Drew agreed to a 1-year contract with Boston, ESPN reported.

* Houston signed veteran Carlos Pena to be its designated hitter.