The Pirates this afternoon announced their first "major" free-agent signing of this offseason, inking utility infielder Ramon Vazquez to a two-year, $4 million contract.
Vazquez is in Pittsburgh today and has had a physical exam. "Ramon is very happy to be playing for Pittsburgh," His agent, Melvin Roman, said.
Vazquez, 32, had a career-best season in 2008, batting .290 with six homers and 40 RBI. In his eight-year career, Vazquez has never appeared in more than 128 games or gotten more than 423 at-bats.
With a career .973 fielding percentage, Vazquez's natural position is shortstop. However, he can play all four infield positions.
