3B Will Middlebrooks signs minor league deal with Brewers

MILWAUKEE (AP) Will Middlebrooks became the latest candidate for the Milwaukee Brewers' third base job, agreeing to a minor league contract with an invite to spring training.

The 27-year-old Middlebrooks spent last season with the San Diego Padres, hitting .212 with nine homers and 29 RBIs.

The Brewers announced the deal Tuesday.

The right-handed hitter was once a promising prospect for the Boston Red Sox, hitting 15 homers and hitting .288 in 75 games in his first year in the majors in 2012.

The rebuilding Brewers are looking to replace Aramis Ramirez at third. Ramirez was dealt to Pittsburgh in July before he retired.

The Brewers this offseason have also traded for Garin Cecchini from Boston and Jonathan Villar from Houston as possible options at third.