Outfielder Endy Chavez, who last June destroyed his right knee in a collision with Yuniesky Betancourt, has joined the Texas Rangers:

ARLINGTON -- The Rangers added some possible outfield depth for later in the season on Monday, when they signed Endy Chavez to a Minor League contract with an invitation to Spring Training.

It's unknown how well Chavez - who is currently rehabbing - will return from his injury, which included a torn ACL, a torn MCL, and a torn lateral meniscus. However, while timetables pegged him for needing a full year to recover, he appears to be ahead of schedule, and the Rangers clearly like what they've heard.

As a player who relies on his speed, Chavez needed a good recovery in order to continue his career. When he's been healthy and playing, Chavez has been one of the premier defensive outfielders in baseball, more than holding his own at all three positions since breaking into the league in 2001. Though he's not known for his offense, he is also a capable contact hitter who can draw a walk, beat out a lot of grounders, and steal a base. In short, he's always straddled the line between regular and ideal backup, and though he's not in line to receive in 2010 the kind of playing time he got a year ago, Chavez could and should end up on the Rangers' bench if he returns at or near full strength.

If Chavez makes the team, he will make $1m. His contract comes with a $1.25m 2011 option.

Read more about this signing at Lone Star Ball.