*Photo from District on Deck*
A younger corner infielder now has a new home. The Washington Nationals and 3B/1B Jeimer Candelario have agreed to a one year, $5 million deal, according to Jesse Rogers of ESPN. The Nationals confirmed the signing.
After being non tendered by the Detroit Tigers following 5 full seasons and a portion of a 6th one, Candelario hit free agency, leading the Nationals to sign him. His contract also contains $1 million in bonuses, and he'll be a free agent again following the season.
Candelario struggled last season in Detroit. He ended the season with a .217 average, .272 on base percentage, and a .633 OPS, hitting 13 home runs with 50 RBI's, playing in 124 games in a Tigers uniform in 2022.
The signing of Candelario helps the Nationals address needs on the corner infield despite a down year in 2022. He provides another face at first base alongside Joey Meneses, giving the Nationals a bit more depth. He'll also aid the 3rd base depth, competing alongside Ildemaro Vargas and Carter Kieboom for the starting role.
In his career, Candelario has spent 7 major league seasons split between the Tigers and Chicago Cubs after debuting for a short 5 game stretch in 2016. Candelario has a career .240 batting average, .322 on base percentage, and .723 OPS. He has 66 home runs and 248 RBI's, adding a .401 slugging percentage in 606 games.
Candelario will hopefully revive his career in Washington after they previously turned around Kyle Schwarber in 2021. They ranked 28th in home runs and 26th in runs scored last season, with Candelario likely to aid in both categories.
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