Big Mitch Fritz was a member of the Lightning organization from August 2005, when he signed as a free agent until July 2007, when he was traded to the Rangers for defenseman Bryce Lampman. In two seasons with AHL Springfield, Fritz had six goals, 12 points and 356 penalty minutes in 132 games.

Here is the announcement from the team:

The Tampa Bay Lightning signed free agent left wing Mitch Fritz to a one-year contract today, Executive Vice President and General Manager Brian Lawton announced. He will be assigned to the Norfolk Admirals of the American Hockey League.

Fritz, 6-foot-8, 258 pounds, made his NHL debut last season with the New York Islanders, playing in 20 games with 42 penalty minutes. He also appeared in 36 games with Bridgeport of the AHL, notching two assists.

A native of Osoyoos, British Columbia, Fritz has played in 270 career AHL games with Bridgeport, Hartford, Springfield, Worcester, Milwaukee, Saint John, Hamilton and Lowell. He has amassed 11 goals, 26 points and 761 penalty minutes. He has also played six career Calder Cup Playoff games.

Fritz, who was undrafted, played his junior hockey with the Kelowna Rockets of the WHL, appearing in 110 games.