PHOENIX — Elvis has entered the building.
The Arizona Diamondbacks are adding a new veteran to the mix. They signed shortstop Elvis Andrus to a minor league contract with an invite to Major League Spring Training, meaning Andrus could earn a spot on the opening day roster.
Only 12Sports was there for Andrus’ first day on the job with his new team. He took batting practice with first baseman Christian Walker, third baseman Eugenio Suarez and infielder Emmanuel Rivera. He’s the new kid on the block with the most experience.
“That's one of the reasons they brought me here,” Andrus tell 12Sports’ Cameron Cox. "I’ve done it, I’ve been through it and I know I can help.”
The new D-backs infielder has played in more than 17,000 innings at shortstop in 15 MLB seasons.
“I know I can do it. I know I still got plenty in the tank to help”
The two-time All-Star spent last season with the Chicago White Sox. He hit .251 with 17 home runs. His 2,091 hits rank third among active players behind free agent Joey Votto and Los Angeles Dodgers first baseman Freddie Freeman.
“He's done at a very high level for a really long time,” said D-backs manager Torey Lovullo. “I've been a fan of his from the opposite dugout and now that he's in our Clubhouse I'm excited to watch him go to work.”
Andrus is best known for spending the first 12-years of his career with the Texas Rangers. He made his MLB debut at just 20-years-old and that young kid helped them reach back-to-back World Series in 2010 and 2011. Sound familiar?
“Kind of gives me some memories back,” said Andrus. “Watch it (the D-backs last season) from the other side and you see young guys knowing how to play, and playing the right way with energy and passionate.”
The 35-year-old is competing to backup starting shortstop Geraldo Perdomo. He’ll be a reliable bat and glove off the bench, and a veteran voice in the clubhouse.
“You can see it everybody's eyes. Everybody is ready to just get back in the season, get back in the postseason and get back to the World Series.”
He helps the team keep winning and stay relaxed. On the field and in the clubhouse.
“Always going to keep it fun man. I’m very happy to be here.”
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