MLB Free Agents: Washington Nationals Sign Rick Ankiel
By Editorial Staff
Yesterday the Washington Nationals announced their agreement with free agent outfielder Rick Ankiel. The deal, which includes an invitation to Spring Training, is of the minor league variety. Ankiel spent the 2011 season in Washington and will again receive an opportunity to make the club this spring.
Last October, the Nationals signed Ankiel to a one-year, $1.5 million contract. Ankiel spent most of the season manning center field for Washington, but only turned in a line of .239/.296/.363 over his 415 plate appearances.
Washington is hoping Ankiel can improve on those numbers in 2012. In order to help him do so, the Nationals could potentially platoon Ankiel in center field with fellow veteran Mike Cameron. Ankiel has a career OPS of .759 against righties compared to a mark of only .652 versus southpaws. Conversely, Cameron has fared better against lefties (.853 OPS) than versus right-handers (.758 OPS).
Beyond the potential platoon, Washington is rumored to be debating other ways to fill their center field void. Once such rumor would have Jayson Werth moving over from his corner outfield spot to man center. Another would involve a trade of John Lannan for a center fielder, specifically Peter Bourjos of the Angels.
If Washington decides to stand pat and not make any additional moves, it would appear that Ankiel has a good shot at not only making the club but of being a regular player for the Nationals. Even if Washington adds a center fielder before Opening Day, Ankiel could still be used off the bench as an extra outfielder and left-handed bat.
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You can check out all of the available free agents by position below.