Arizona Diamondbacks sign Wil Nieves to 1-year, $800K deal

The Arizona Diamondbacks have re-signed catcher Wil Nieves to a one-year contract according to former ESPN Baseball Tonight host and current Diamondbacks announcer, Steve Berthiaume.

The projected backup catcher will earn $800,000 in 2013, according to Jack Magruder of Fox Sports Arizona.

Wil Nieves was non-tendered by the Diamondbacks last week and speculation existed that Arizona was interested in signing Eli Whiteside to fill the backup role. Whiteside recently signed with the Toronto Blue Jays.

Nieves began his MLB career in 2002 with the San Diego Padres. The 35 year-old San Juan, Peurto Rico native hit .301 with 2 homers and 8 RBI for the Rockies and Diamondbacks last year. However, the former Brewers Opening Day catcher is better known for his work behind the plate than his work with the bat.

Nieves will be entering his tenth season in the Major Leagues and he has spent time with several other organizations including the New York Yankees, Washington Nationals, San Diego Padres, and Milwaukee Brewers. In addition to his backup duties, he could provide valuable veteran leadership for some younger Diamondbacks players.