DENVER -- The Rockies agreed a one-year, $1.275 million deal with infielder Melvin Mora on Sunday, pending the results of a physical, Major League sources told MLB.com.
Signing Mora, a two-time All-Star who turns 38 on Tuesday, means the Rockies have the right-handed-hitting utility player they've been seeking this winter. They've also signed left-handed-hitting Jason Giambi.
Mora, a career .278 hitter who hit .260 with eight home runs and 48 RBIs for the Orioles last season, appeared in 124 games at third in 2009, giving the team an experienced third baseman to step in, should Ian Stewart be injured or need to be spelled against left-handed pitching. Mora, who has also seen time at shortstop, can also spell Troy Tulowitzki, has extensive experience in center field, and has worked at second base.
Signings of recent weeks have given the Rockies the potential for an experienced bench, as well as plenty of competition for reserve jobs during Spring Training. Catcher Paul Lo Duca and outfielder Jay Payton will be in camp under Minor League contracts. The Rockies are also grooming second-base prospect Eric Young Jr. to play third base and the corner outfield positions.
The Rockies had also pursued Orlando Cabrera. However, Cabrera, wanting to play shortstop, reached an agreement with the Reds on Saturday night.
The Rangers and Mariners also pursued Mora, according to media reports.
No comments:
Post a Comment