Bobby Abreu Agrees to Deal with Philadelphia Phillies

Veteran outfielder Bobby Abreu reportedly will return to the Philadelphia Phillies for the upcoming MLB season.

According to Fox Sports' Ken Rosenthal, "El Comedulce," who turns 40 years old in March, is headed back to the City of Brotherly Love, where he spent eight-and-a-half seasons early in his career:

CBS Sports' Jon Heyman initially reported the news:

ESPN.com's Jerry Crasnick added that Abreu will sign a minor league contract:

During his stint with Philly, Abreu was a two-time All-Star and won the Silver Slugger award in 2004 when he hit .301/.428/.544 with 30 home runs and 105 RBI. He slugged over .500 five times. 

While he enjoyed a nice career with the Phils and went on to have some productive seasons with the New York Yankees and Los Angeles Angels, he last played in the majors in 2012, when he hit .242 with three home runs in 100 games with the Angels and Los Angeles Dodgers.    

He was unable to land a contract in 2013. 

Nevertheless, according to CSN Philly's Jim Salisbury, Abreu hit .322 with three homers, 28 RBI and an .877 OPS in the Venezuelan League this winter, leading to this quote from general manager Ruben Amaro Jr.:

“Bobby has had a nice winter season. We have decent reports on him.”

The chances of Abreu making a significant impact for the Phillies in 2014 aren't good. But at the same time, he's a low-risk signing and will potentially provide a decent left-handed bat off the bench.

If he struggles in spring training, then that will likely signal the end of his playing career. If he proves that he can still hit a little bit, though, then perhaps he can play a small role for Philadelphia.