"Looking for a veteran who could satisfy their need for depth and their hope to add seasoning to the bench, the Cardinals on Monday signed utility infielder Alex Cora to a minor-league deal that includes an invitation to spring training.

Cora, 36, had considered retiring to start a career in coaching, and Cards general manager John Mozeliak said that was part of Cora's attraction to the club. The versatile veteran will offer what Mozeliak described as "an on-field coach" during spring training as he attempts to win a job as a backup for the major-league bench.

In 91 games for Washington last season, Cora hit .224 with a .287 on-base percentage. In the past two seasons split between three major-league teams he has hit .217 with a .275 on-base percentage."