Chad Moeller Signs With Washington

Whoever the Dodgers wind up with as their backup catcher for Russell Martin, it won't be Chad Moeller. Moeller made certain of that by signing a minor league contract with the Washington Nationals that includes an invitation to spring training as a non-roster player.

When the Dodgers obtained Moeller in the latter stages of the 2007 season, it was thought by some that he might be a cheaper alternative to Mike Lieberthal as Martin's caddy. However, after being brought up in September, Moeller was subsequently outrighted to Las Vegas. He then exercised his option to become a free agent.

Moeller had hit .324 in just 12 games for Las Vegas after the Dodgers picked him up. He played in seven games for the Dodgers, going 1-for -8. In all, with the Reds and LA he averaged just .161 in the National League and also hit .250 for Louisville.

Moeller is 32 years old.

Since then the Dodgers have signed Free agent C Rene Rivera signed a minor league contract with the Dodgers and appears to be the front-runner to back up Russell Martin heading into spring training.