Minnesota Twins Sign Jamey Carroll

Last year, the Minnesota Twins signed Tsuyoshi Nishioka to fill a long-term role in their middle infield. He ended up being one of the worst players in the game, posting -1.4 WAR over 68 games. They're not being nearly as risky this time around, though, as ESPN's Jerry Crasnick is reporting that the Twins and shortstop Jamey Carroll have agreed to a two-year deal.

Carroll, 37, spent last season with the Dodgers, playing mostly shortstop and second base. Crasnick is reporting that the Twins are giving him the everyday gig at shortstop, though, which clearly explains part of why Minnesota appeals to the veteran.

Ken Rosenthal says that the deal will be worth roughly $7 million, which is a pretty good deal for the Twins. It took two years and $4 million to get Willie Bloomquist under contract in Arizona, and for a couple more million the Twins are getting a demonstrably better player. Carroll's posted a .362 OBP over the past four years, he's a solid middle infield defender and a good runner despite lacking good speed.

It's a low-upside move, but the kind of deal that prevents you from having to use below-replacement players with any frequency.