ATLANTA - Adeiny Hechavarría agreed Thursday to a $1 million, one-year contract to remain with the Atlanta Braves, a move that boosted the team's infield depth.
The 30-year-old signed with the Braves on Aug. 16, two days after he was released by the New York Mets. Hechavarria, known for his defense, hit .328 with four home runs in 24 games with Atlanta.
Hechavarria batted only .204 with five homers in 60 games with the Mets. He has a .253 career average in eight seasons with the Toronto Blue Jays, the Miami Marlins, the Tampa Bay Rays, the Pittsburgh Pirates and the New York Yankees in addition to the Mets and the Braves.
His primary position is shortstop, but he also has played second base and third. His potential to serve as a utility infielder could be especially important if Johan Camargo opens the season as the starter at third.
Atlanta fell short in its attempt to re-sign free agent third baseman Josh Donaldson, who instead agreed to a $92 million, four-year contract with the Minnesota Twins, a deal that is pending. Camargo played a utility role last year, when Donaldson started at third base.