Center fielder Rick Ankiel will have a chance to be back with the Nationals in 2012. The team has signed him to a minor league deal with an invitation to spring training. The signing was first reported by Amanda Comak of The Washington Times. Financial details were not disclosed.
Ankiel, a former left-handed starting pitcher who is known for his defense and strong arm in the outfield, hit .239 with 9 home runs and 37 RBI last season, when he made $1.5 million. His defensive prowess and offensive production gave the Nats enough confidence to deal Nyjer Morgan to Milwaukee and move Ankiel into the leadoff spot until Ian Desmond’s bat heated up enough to claim the top spot in the order.
Unless the Nationals trade for a center fielder this spring, Ankiel will be one of several candidates for the center field spot, along with Roger Bernadina and Mike Cameron. If the Nats decide to keep outfield prospect Bryce Harper on the big league club in right field and start Jayson Werth in center, then Ankiel would offer defensive depth and a left-handed bat off the bench.
