HOUSTON (AP) — The Houston Astros have signed veteran Carlos Pena to be their designated hitter, addressing a key need as they prepare for their first season in the American League.
The 34-year-old Pena, who spent last season in his second stint with Tampa Bay, hit .197 with 19 home runs and 61 RBIs in 2012. Terms were not released Monday.
Pena had the best seasons of his career in his first stint with the Rays from 2007-2010 when he had at least 100 RBIs in three of those four seasons. His most productive year came in his first with the team when he hit 46 homers with 121 RBIs, both career-highs.
Pena started his career with the Rangers and has also played with Oakland, Detroit, Boston and the Cubs.
