Washington Nationals sign Chris Snyder, two others to minor league contracts

The Washington Nationals have brought back veteran catcher Chris Snyder to the organization for a second stint with the team.

Chris Snyder was signed by the Nationals back in February of this year but was released by the Nationals in March. He was picked up the same day by the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim but was traded to the Baltimore Orioles for Rob Delaney a month later.

The 32 year old catcher ended up being designated for assignment by the Orioles on June 4th and was assigned to Triple-A Norfolk Tides just four days later. During his only season with the Orioles, Snyder played in nine games and seen 20 at bats.

He managed to only record one RBI, walked four times and struck out seven with a batting line of .100/.250/.100. Snyder will have the opportunity to make the Opening Day roster and back up Wilson Ramos if he can take advantage of the Spring Training invite.

After the Nationals signed Snyder, they were able to bring in two other players with Minor League contracts of their own.

First they signed 28 year old infielder Emmanuel Burriss who spent some time at the Triple-A level. He only had one home run, 24 RBI’s but hit .241/.394/.266 across the line. A solid defensive player who shines with his glove more than he does in the batters box.

Second guy up is catcher Mitch Canham. A 29 year old who has played almost 600 Minor League games with a career .255/.340/.364 batting line under his belt. He doesn’t have that much power in his bat as he’s only hit 25.

Canham has the ability to play more than one position. Something that will come in handy for this team whenever they need it. He’s able to play first base, the hot corner and either corner positions in the outfield. We’ll have to see how the Nationals decide to use him, if he is in fact found useful to this organization.