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Nats expected to introduce Pudge

WASHINGTON -- The Washington Nationals say there will be a news conference at their stadium Friday, when they're expected to announce the signing of free agent Ivan Rodriguez.

The 38-year-old catcher agreed this week to a $6 million, two-year contract, pending a physical.

A 14-time All-Star and the 1999 AL MVP, Rodriguez split last season between the Houston Astros and Texas Rangers. He hit a combined .249 with 10 homers and 47 RBIs.

Rodriguez, a 13-time Gold Glove winner, is slated to be a backup to Jesus Flores, who missed most of last season with injuries.

After playing for Texas from 1991 to 2002, Rodriguez spent one season with the Florida Marlins and 4½ with the Detroit Tigers before finishing 2008 with the New York Yankees. He then signed with Houston, and the Astros traded him to the Rangers in August.