Nelson Cruz has agreed to a one-year deal with the San Diego Padres, sources told ESPN on Wednesday. The slugger’s contract with the Padres is reported to be worth $1 million.
At 42 years old, Cruz is still on the hunt for his first World Series title. He has played 18 seasons in the major leagues, however, he only received full-time at-bats at the age of 28. Cruz has improved significantly with age, making six of his seven All-Star appearances after the age of 32 and winning four Silver Slugger awards.
Cruz remained on top of his game despite enduring a challenging season last year, hitting .234/.313/.337 with 10 home runs in 507 plate appearances for the Washington Nationals. He is set to serve as the general manager of the Dominican Republic during the upcoming World Baseball Classic in March, after which he will hope to rebound from last season with the Padres.
During the offseason, Cruz underwent surgery on his left eye to correct his vision after experiencing issues for over a year.
