SAN DIEGO — The Pirates have signed left hand pitcher Francisco Liriano to a 3-year, $39-million contract, according to Robert Murray of MLB Daily Rumors, reporting from Major League Baseball’s winter meetings.

The contract, which would be official after Liriano passes a physical exam, is the largest free-agent deal in Pirates’ history. The previous deal of 2 years and $17 million brought Russell Martin to Pittsburgh.

Liriano started 55 games in the past two years with the Pirates, producing a 3.20 earned run average and 338 strikeouts in 323 innings.

He earlier had rejected a one-year, $15.1 million offer.

Cam Newton Injured

In another breaking sports story, Cam Newton, quarterback of the Carolina Panthers, has been injured in a car crash in downtown Charlotte Tuesday afternoon, ESPN is reporting.

Two cars reportedly were involved in the crash on a bridge over Interstate 277.

“We are closely monitoring the situation of a car wreck involving Cam Newton,” the Panthers said in a statement. “We will have more information at an appropriate time.”

Newton reportedly was conscious when transported to a hospital, and did not suffer life-threatening injuries.