HUNTER’S $90M ANGELS DEAL CONSUMATED AT DEL TACO: The RIVERSIDE PRESS-ENTERPRISE reports that the $90M deal struck between Torii Hunter and the Angels was negotiated and consumated at a Del Taco in Corona, CA.

This after “Hunter dined at Texas owner Tom Hicks’ ranch a few days earlier and Chicago White Sox representatives flew to Texas with a video featuring Jim Thome and Bulls center Ben Wallace urging him to join the South Siders.“Following an impromptu discussion about Hunter over the phone, Hunter’s agent Larry Reynolds, who is based in Riverside, CA., and Angels GM Tony Reagins needed a meeting place to continue the convo.

Reagins: “I drive the 91 pretty often. Del Taco is one of my favorite fast food chains. I knew that one halfway between Riverside and Anaheim.”

To be clear, Hunter wasn’t at the Del Taco when Reagins and Reynolds wrapped up the contract, but he didn’t seem to mind (from USA TODAY): “I always imagined my deal would get done inside a board room or a Capital Grille. Turns out it was done at a Del Taco. Can you believe it? The deal gets done over some tacos.“Tacos? We’re hoping it was at least chili cheese fries.

TORII TAGS UP WITH ANGELS IN 5-YEAR, $80 MILLION DEAL: Well, so much for the South Side.

The ORANGE COUNTY REGISTER reports that Torii Hunter has signed a 5-year, $80 million deal to suit up for the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim, California, USA, North America, Western Hemisphere, Earth, Solar System, Milk Way Galaxy.After being wooed by the Chicago White Sox and Texas Rangers, the former Minnesota Twin chose to head west to SoCal, a decision that he himself is surprised with:

“I didn’t think they needed a center fielder like me. They shocked me.”

It can’t be too shocking, considering Gary Matthews Jr., the current high-priced Angels center fielder, is in trouble with MLB for possible HGH use. So, roster space is available.

But Torii is very thankful for his new-found home: “They shocked the world. I love these guys.”

TORII TORN BETWEEN SOUTH SIDE & SOUTHFORK RANCH: After parting ways with the Minnesota Twins, Torii Hunter could soon be dialing up home runs at U.S. Cellular Field:

The CHICAGO SUN-TIMES reports that although 5 different teams have made offers, the free-agent outfielder has narrowed down his choice between the White Sox and Texas Rangers.Hunter recently feasted on a steak dinner at the 30-acre ranch of Rangers owner Tom Hicks, who then offered a six-year deal to the slugger for dessert. Torii also happens to have a home in the Dallas area.

But the All-Star also likes what he hears from White Sox GM Ken Williams. After meeting with Sox officials, Hunter said about Williams, “He wants to win. You’ve got to like that….He’s impressive.”

Although Torii has claimed that he’s “not leaning one way or another” toward any team at the moment, sources close to him say the South Side would be his first choice.Hunter is expected to make his decision by early next week.