The Cleveland Indians today signed free agent OF Will Venable to a Minor League contract with a non-roster invitation to Major League spring training camp.
Venable, 33, has spent virtually his entire career with the San Diego Padres since debuting in 2008. He owns a career Major League batting average of .251 (706-2818) with 117 doubles, 39 triples, 81 home runs and 307 RBI in 955 games (135SB / 31CS, 81%). The San Rafael, CA native and Princeton alum has previously ranked in the top ten in the National League in triples (four times), stolen bases (two times) and range factor/9.0IP (three times).
His best season came in 2013, hitting .268 (129-481) with 22 2B, 8 3B, 22HR, 53 RBI and 22 steals in 151 games. He split the 2015 season between San Diego and Texas after being acquired by the Rangers on August 18, appearing in four games during the ALDS vs. Toronto. His father, Max, appeared in 727 Major League games from 1979-91. He will wear #38.