Xavier Nady refuses outright assignment, elects free agency

Mandatory Credit: Tommy Gilligan-USA TODAY Sports

Twelve year veteran Xavier Nady surprised many when he was given a spot on the San Diego Padres Opening Day roster but now finds himself a free agent. The 35 year old corner infielder/outfielder has refused an outright assignment to the minor leagues, instead electing to take his chances on the open market that another MLB opportunity might present itself.

Nady had been designated for assignment last Tuesday when the team called up Kyle Blanks to take his place.

Appearing in 22 games for the Padres, Nady batted just .135/.238/.405 in 42 PA. Four of his five hits went for extra bases, including a trio of home runs. Despite the few big hits he’d failed to offer much production off the bench for San Diego and it’s hardly surprising that the team made a move to replace him last week. Nady is a .268/.323/.432 hitter for his career. He’s spent time with nine different MLB clubs during his 12 seasons in the Major Leagues, not counting the two organizations he spent time in the minor leagues with a season ago.

Rather than heading to Triple-A Nady will take his chances on the open market, but it’s tough to imagine that another opportunity will be readily available. The longtime veteran has experience at both outfield corners and at first base in his career, but hasn’t produced much at the plate. The last time he’d earned more than 300 plate appearances in a season came back in 2010. His unwillingness to head to the minor leagues could also prove to be a detriment, as other organizations may consider him as depth but may not have a need for him right away.

In 27 games prior to being called up Blanks had hit .265/.364/.651 in 99 plate appearances, hitting 9 home runs. He has two hits in 10 at bats since joining the Padres.