Report: Angels, Valbuena nearing multi-year deal

The Los Angeles Angels appear close to signing free-agent infielder Luis Valbuena.

The two sides are reportedly nearing a multi-year contract, according to Venezuelan reporter Efrain Zavarace, which would beef up the team's infield depth and left-handed hitting options off the bench.

Earlier in January, the Baltimore Orioles appeared to show interest in signing Valbuena as well.

As it stands, the Angels have Yunel Escobar at third, Andrelton Simmons at shortstop, Danny Espinosa at second, C.J. Cron at first and Albert Pujols as the designated hitter.

Over his nine-year career, Valbuena has seen the most time at third and second base, but has sprinkled his time around first base, shortstop, and designated hitter. He's only played four career games in the outfield.

Last season, he proved to be an effective player in his second season with the Houston Astros, slashing .260/.357/.459 with 13 home runs and driving in 40 runs over 90 games.

His best season was in 2015, when the 31-year-old netted career highs with 25 homers and 56 RBIs.