|
|
|
| Tue, Nov. 24 - - Mobile - RSS | |
|
|
Anderson gives Nats versatility
Nationals sign Marlon Anderson to 2-year, $1.85 million contract
Date published: 11/19/2005
By TODD JACOBSON Marlon Anderson would like to be an everyday player in the major leagues, but he knows his role, and he knows why the Washington Nationals signed him to a two-year $1.85 million contract yesterday. "I kind of think of myself as a jack of all trades," Anderson said in a phone interview. "It's one of those things where I just feel happy to have an opportunity to be [in Washington]. They are looking for me to come in and contribute." Anderson, 31, is expected to be the team's pinch-hitting specialist and a valuable backup at first base, second base and the outfield next season. He was second in the National League with 18 pinch-hits for the New York Mets last season, and fourth among pinch-hitters with a .321 average (18-for-56). He batted .264 with seven home runs and 19 RBIs in 123 games with the Mets. "I think it makes our bench a lot better. It was a hole on our club last year," Nationals general manager Jim Bowden said. "It certainly strengthens us. He has the ability to play first, second and left, he is a tremendous presence in the clubhouse and a great influence on a team." "He understands his role now and has really flourished the last few years," Bowden added. Anderson's signing could mean the end of Carlos Baerga's tenure with the Nationals. Baerga was the team's top pinch-hitter this season as well as a backup infielder, and it leaves second baseman Jamey Carroll's status with the team in jeopardy as well. Washington signed infielders Bernie Castro and Damian Jackson last month, and also has Junior Spivey and Rick Short on its roster. Anderson has played with four teams in eight seasons, batting .264 in 860 games, but only recently came into his own a pinch-hitter. He was a starter with the Philadelphia Phillies and the Tampa Bay Devil Rays early in his career, and he didn't discount playing every day with the Nationals. Anderson will likely also be insurance for regular second baseman Jose Vidro, who this winter is likely to undergo his second offseason knee surgery in as many seasons. "I am always preparing to play every day," Anderson said. "I always do that. If anything happens my body will be prepared and my mind will be prepared."
Date published: 11/19/2005
|
 |
|||
|
|||
