The Washington Nationals have agreed to a minor league a deal with infielder Jamey Carroll, according to an industry source. The deal includes an invitation to major league spring training.
Carroll, who turns 40 in February, chose the Nationals over the Cleveland Indians. He returns to the organization with whom he spent the first four seasons of his major league career, from 2002 to 2005. He will likely have the chance to compete with Danny Espinosa and Zach Walters for a backup infield spot with the team in spring training.
In 73 games with the Twins and Royals last season, Carroll hit .211 with 11 RBI while seeing time at second base, shortstop and third base. His versatility likely made him attractive to teams this winter, as he reportedly drew interest from the Rangers and Rays in addition to Cleveland and Washington.
Over his twelve-year major league career with the Expos/Nationals (2002-2005), Rockies (2006-2007), Indians (2008-2009), Dodgers (2010-2011), Twins (2012-2013) and Royals (2012), Carroll is a lifetime .272 hitter with 13 HR and 265 RBI.