Detroit -- Two Red Wings with uncertain futures can see what's ahead a little more clearly.

Kirk Maltby, 37, signed a one-year, two-way contract with the Wings on Wednesday. Maltby will battle for a position on the Wings' roster during the exhibition season, but is more likely to start the season with the Grand Rapids Griffins.

"I want to get to (training) camp and see how things go," Maltby said Wednesday after a workout at Joe Louis Arena. "I wasn't happy with the way last season ended."

Maltby's season was cut short because of shoulder surgery. He then went unsigned during the summer, but came to an agreement with the Wings this week.

The Wings also placed defenseman Derek Meech on waivers.

Teams have until noon Thursday to claim Meech. If Meech isn't claimed, he'll go with the Wings to camp in Traverse City and see his future holds.

Meech, 26, has been unable to land regular playing time with the Wings in his four-year career.

The Wings appear set among their forwards, so Maltby faces a tough battle to avoid starting the season with the AHL's Griffins.

"I'd be lying if I said I didn't think about it and what it would be like to be down there," said Maltby. "Right now (I'm focusing on) Traverse City and exhibition games.

"I've played in the minors before. It's changed a lot and roles are reversed. I'd be one of the older guys down there."

From The Detroit News: http://detnews.com/article/20100908/SPORTS0103/9080418/1128/rss16#ixzz0yyKUx8dD