Updated 11:00 p.m. ET
After finalizing a revised deal with starting pitcher Francisco Liriano Friday, the Pittsburgh Pirates have signed utility infielder Brandon Inge to a minor-league contract, according to MLB.com's Tom Singer (h/t CBS Sports' Danny Knobler).
According to Singer and Knobler, the deal will include an invitation to spring training.
Inge, 35, spent the bulk of 2012 with the Oakland Athletics, after starting the year on the Detroit Tigers roster. The veteran was released after just nine games and eventually totaled 83 games played last season, batting .218 with 12 home runs and 54 RBI.
After suffering a right-shoulder sprain in August, Inge underwent successful arthroscopic surgery on Sept. 13.
The move would provide depth at multiple positions as Inge is one of the most versatile players in the game today.
While Inge is primarily a third baseman, he also has filled in as a catcher, second baseman and has had tours in all three outfield spots. He also has plus-defensive abilities, as Chris Iott of mlive.com explains.
Another aspect of Inge's game that is especially relevant to the Pirates situation this season is touched upon in Iott's report:
"During a span of seven seasons, from 2004 to 2010, Inge averaged 17 home runs and 70 RBI while hitting in the bottom third of the batting order. That's pretty good production for a No. 8 or 9 hitter."
Last season, the Pirates had some of the worst offense output in the league out of the eight and nine spots. It's more than likely Inge won't be filling an everyday role, as he will be competing for a roster spot, but what he would bring to the major-league roster—specifically coming off the bench—would be impactful.
Inge also has a knack for the dramatic, as he has seven career walk-off home runs, three of which have come in the last two seasons. Inge was hitting higher in the order than No. 7 on only one of those walk-off home runs.
Pitchers and catchers reported to Bradenton, Fla. on Feb. 11 while position players will join them Feb. 14.
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