Rangers sign Justin Ruggiano to 1-year, $1.65 million deal

The Rangers have signed outfielder Justin Ruggiano to a 1-year, $1.65 million contract, according to a team announcement. Evan Grant of the Dallas Morning News previously reported that the sides were working on a deal.

Since the 2011 season, Ruggiano has been a member of the Rays, Astros, Marlins, Cubs, Mariners, and Dodgers' organizations. Last year he played in 57 games, and posted a slash line of .248/.333/.472, with a wOBA of .349 and a wRC+ of 125 for the Mariners and Dodgers.

While Ruggiano doesn't have nationwide name recognition, the 33 year old outfielder has proven to be an above-average major league hitter over the course of his career. In 1390 career PA's, he's hit .256/.321/.436 with a wOBA of .331 and a wRC+ OF 109.

As of now, the Rangers have Josh Hamilton, Delino DeShields Jr., Shin-Soo Choo, Nomar Mazara, Ryan Rua, and Joey Gallo listed on their outfield depth chart. The signing of Ruggiano allows them to not only rest Hamilton on a more frequent basis, but also give Gallo and Mazara more time in the minor leagues.