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Orioles Sign Nate McLouth

By Nate A.
March 8, 2012; Clearwater FL, USA; Pittsburgh Pirates center fielder Nate McLouth (2) bats in the second inning of the game against the Philadelphia Phillies at Bright House Field. Mandatory Credit: Daniel Shirey-US PRESSWIRE
March 8, 2012; Clearwater FL, USA; Pittsburgh Pirates center fielder Nate McLouth (2) bats in the second inning of the game against the Philadelphia Phillies at Bright House Field. Mandatory Credit: Daniel Shirey-US PRESSWIRE

The Baltimore Orioles have signed free agent outfielder Nate McLouth to a minor league contract, reports Roch Kubatko of MASN.

The 30-year-old McLouth, who has struggled mightily the past three seasons, went unclaimed on waivers and was subsequently released by the Pittsburgh Pirates last week.

With Nick Markakis and Nolan Reimold nursing injuries, McLouth gives the Orioles some added outfield depth should the team lose anyone else to the disabled list.

After putting up quality numbers (.260/.342/.454) in his first five big league seasons, including an All-Star and Gold Glove season in 2008, McLouth hit a proverbial wall in 2010 and has never recovered. McLouth has hit an abysmal .203/.312/.313 the past three seasons, completely losing the power stroke that at one time made up for his questionable defense.

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