Sources: Rockies reach deal with Mora
{{#rendered}} {{/rendered}}The Rockies, shut out in their attempt to sign free-agent shortstop Orlando Cabrera, have reached an agreement on a one-year, $1.3 million deal with infielder Melvin Mora, according to major-league sources.
Cabrera agreed to a deal with the Reds on Saturday night for a one-year, $4 million free-agent contract, preferring to remain at shortstop than play second base or move into a utility role.
Mora, who turns 38 on Tuesday, is expected to fill a super-utility role. He returns to the National League after spending more than nine seasons with the Orioles, who acquired him from the Mets at the trade deadline in 2000.
{{#rendered}} {{/rendered}}The Orioles had used Mora as their primary third baseman since 2004, but Mora spent the winter training for a return to his old utility role. He has played 814 career games at third, but also has spent significant time at shortstop, left and center fields.
A career .278 hitter, Mora slumped badly last season, producing his lowest OPS since 2001. The Rockies believe that he might be energized by a fresh start.