Nationals sign Ankiel to minor league contract

WASHINGTON (AP) -- A person familiar with the deal says the Washington Nationals have agreed to a minor league contract with outfielder Rick Ankiel.

The person spoke to The Associated Press Monday on condition of anonymity because the Nationals had yet to announce the signing.

If added to the 40-man roster, Ankiel would have a $1.25 million, one-year contract and could make $1.5 million in performance bonuses. The performance bonuses are the same as his deal last year with the Nationals, plus an additional $250,000 for 400 plate appearances.

The 32-year-old Ankiel batted .239 with nine home runs and 37 RBIs in 122 games last season with Washington. He gives the Nationals depth at center field.

Ankiel has also played for St. Louis, Kansas City and Atlanta over nine major league seasons.

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