Phillies make one final signing before MLB lockout

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The Phillies made one final move Wednesday night before MLB's lockout began, signing former Braves utility infielder Johan Camargo to a one-year deal.

Major league transaction halt with the lockout now in effect.

Camargo, a switch-hitter, can play all the infield positions, though he's spent most of his career at third base and has not played shortstop in the majors since 2019. He turns 28 in two weeks.

The Phillies made room for him on the 40-man roster by designating pitcher Adonis Medina for assignment.

Earlier in the day, the Phils signed reliever Corey Knebel to a one-year deal and it looks like he's in line to close.

Camargo broke out for the Braves in 2017 when he hit .299 in 82 games. He spent most of the next year as a regular, starting 122 games and hitting .272/.349/.457 with 19 homers and 27 doubles in 524 plate appearances.

His role was reduced in 2019 when the Braves signed Josh Donaldson and that continued with the emergence of Austin Riley. Camargo has not hit much as a reserve these last three seasons, batting just .212/.260/.361.

Camargo spent the bulk of 2021 with the Braves' Triple A Gwinnett affiliate. He hit .326 with a .958 OPS in 104 games and made his way onto the Braves' NLCS roster, appearing in four games and going 0 for 4.

With the Phillies, Camargo could fill the role Ronald Torreyes (free agent) served last season, though he might not be in line for as much work at shortstop. Prospect Bryson Stott and Didi Gregorius are also in the picture for the Phils at short. Gregorius has not been guaranteed the starting job and will have to earn it after struggling offensively and defensively in 2021.

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