Nationals Sign Rick Ankiel

According to William Ladson of MLB.com, the Washington Nationals have signed outfielder Rick Ankiel to a minor-league contract. If he makes the major-league roster, he could presumably platoon with Mike Cameron in centerfield, as Ladson notes.

Ankiel, 32, hit .239/.296/.363 (81 OPS+) with nine home runs in 415 plate appearances with the Washington Nationals last year. He's spent time at all three outfield positions over the last several seasons, but 84 of his 90 starts in 2011 came in center. Since 2007, Ankiel has played with the Cardinals, Royals, Braves, and Nationals, putting together an overall line of .248/.311/.430, good for a 96 OPS+.

• Twitter / @washingnats: I have confirmed that the ...
  "I have confirmed that the #Nats signed Rick Ankiel to a minor league deal. Great move."
• Twitter / @washingnats: I would not be surprised i ...
  "I would not be surprised if there is a platoon in center between Ankiel and Cameron. #Nats MLB"