Reports: Nationals, Kendrick agree on two-year, $7M deal

The Washington Nationals and Howie Kendrick have agreed to a two-year, $7 million contract, according to multiple reports.

The deal is pending a physical.

The Nationals acquired Kendrick, 34, from the Phillies on July 28 last season. In 52 regular-season games with the team, he hit .293 with an .837 OPS -- both higher than his career averages. He also filled a variety of roles in Washington's lineup, playing second base and outfield and also serving as the team's top right-handed bat off the bench.

During the Winter Meetings in December, Nationals general manager Mike Rizzo noted Kendrick's value in the clubhouse, as well. And with starting second baseman Daniel Murphy still recovering from offseason microfracture surgery in his right knee, Kendrick could serve as valuable insurance should Murphy not be ready by Opening Day.

Kendrick is a career .291 hitter with 104 home runs, 636 RBIs and 123 stolen bases in 12 seasons. He spent his first nine seasons with the Angels, making the 2011 All-Star Game.

--Field Level Media