Reds’ Nix becomes free agent

Staff report Updated 11:54 PM Friday, November 20, 2009

CINCINNATI — The Cincinnati Reds made some procedural moves Friday, Nov. 20, to set their 40-man roster, adding seven young players and ultimately losing outfielder Laynce Nix.

Nix, who batted .239 with 26 doubles, 15 home runs and 46 RBIs last season in 309 at-bats, refused an outright assignment to the minors and elected free agency. He still could sign with the Reds, though.

Nix, 29, is a career .237 hitter with Texas, Milwaukee and the Reds.

Added to the roster were seven former Dayton Dragons: Right-handers Enerio Del Rosario, Logan Ondrusek and Jordan Smith, left-handers Philippe Valiquette and Travis Wood, infielder Chris Valaika and outfielder Chris Heisey.

Heisey batted .347 at Carolina and .278 at Louisville, combining for 22 homers and 77 RBI. He’s thought to have an outside shot at making the team in the spring.

In other moves, pitcher Daryl Thompson was removed from the roster and catcher Craig Tatum was claimed off waivers by the Baltimore Orioles. Tatum, known more for his defense, batted .162 in 68 at-bats as a rookie.

Share this article