Nats bring back Asdrúbal Cabrera, finalize Eric Thames deal
WASHINGTON (AP) — Add Asdrúbal Cabrera to the group of players the Washington Nationals are bringing back — and using to create flexibility in their infield.
Cabrera and the Nationals finalized a one-year deal Wednesday that includes a $2.5 million salary and the chance to earn performance bonuses.
The team also completed its $4 million, one-year contract with first baseman Eric Thames, which includes a mutual option for 2021.
The 34-year-old Cabrera was a big part of Washington’s surge to the World Series, hitting .323 with six homers and 40 RBIs in just 38 games after signing with the Nationals in August. He played primarily second base for the club, but also appeared at third base and first.
That was the switch-hitter’s second stint with the club. He joins postseason star Howie Kendrick, free agent Starlin Castro and Wilmer Difo as players who could be used at second or third base.
The 33-year-old Thames had 25 homers and 61 RBIs with the Milwaukee Brewers in 2019, his third season with that team.
The lefty batter averaged 24 homers per season with the Brewers after returning to the majors from playing in South Korea.
