The Reds, adding another center fielder to an already crowded mix, have signed free agent Corey Patterson to a minor-league contract, according to major-league sources. Patterson, who played for new manager Dusty Baker with the Cubs, will compete with Ryan Freel, Norris Hopper and top prospect Jay Bruce for the Reds’ center-field job.
The Reds also signed free-agent infielder/outfielder Jerry Hairston Jr. on Monday, but it is unclear how Hairston — another former Cub under Baker — would fit on the Cincinnati roster, if at all.
Hairston, 31, has appeared in only six career games at short, getting most of his playing time at second base and in the outfield. He spent 2007 with the Rangers after making the team on a minor-league contract, but hit only .189 in 73 games.
Patterson, 28, batted .269 for the Orioles last season with eight home runs, 45 RBIs and 37 steals in 46 attempts. He lingered on the free-agent market in part because his career on-base percentage is .298.
The Reds also considered signing free-agent center fielder Kenny Lofton, who could have filled their void in the leadoff spot. But Lofton wanted a major-league deal.