The Arizona Diamondbacks have added depth to their middle infield after signing a veteran on Wednesday. According to reports, three teams are interested in free agent outfielder Ichiro Suzuki.
The D-Backs and infielder Nick Punto have agreed to a deal, according to Jon Heyman of CBS Sports. Nick Piecoro of the Arizona Republic notes it's a minor-league contract that includes an invitation to spring training. Last month the Oakland Athletics released Punto despite owing him $2.75 million for the 2015 season, but the 14-year veteran will now likely provide depth behind second baseman Aaron Hill and shortstop Chris Owings in Arizona.
Punto signed a two-year deal with the A's before the 2014 season, but after slashing .207/.296/.293 with 21 runs scored, two home runs and 14 RBIs in 73 games, his time in Oakland was done. The 37-year-old has been getting more time at third base in recent years, so it's possible he's used as a utility infielder with the Diamondbacks. Additionally, Owings and third baseman Yasmany Tomas are 23 and 24 years old, which indicates Punto's signing could be to eventually provide guidance for the youngsters if he makes the roster.
As for other free agents, Ichiro Suzuki is garnering interest from a number of clubs. The Baltimore Orioles, Miami Marlins and now Toronto Blue Jays have all checked in on the 10-time All-Star, according to Bob Nightengale of USA Today. Heyman previously reported the Orioles' interest and Clark Spencer of the Miami Herald reported the consideration from the Marlins. Each team is in need of depth at the position, especially at the corner outfield spots.
The 41-year-old Ichiro was traded to the New York Yankees in 2012 after spending 12 seasons with the Seattle Mariners. After coming over from Japan prior to the 2001 season, Ichiro won AL Rookie of the Year and AL MVP in his first MLB season. That year he slashed .350/.381/.457/.838 with 242 hits, 127 runs scored and 56 stolen bases. He'll now likely become a backup outfielder and serve as a depth option, as he did in some capacity in 2014 with the Yankees. He ended up playing more than expected (143 games) due to injuries to Carlos Beltran.
Ichiro owns a career stat line of .317/.360/.411 and has 2,844 hits in the MLB. He batted .284 last season, proving he can still contribute offensively.
