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Giants ink Billy Hamilton to minor-league deal

Leon Halip / Getty Images Sport / Getty

The San Francisco Giants signed outfielder Billy Hamilton to a minor-league contract with an invitation to spring training, the team announced Friday.

Hamilton is known mostly for his game-changing speed. He's stolen over 50 bases in four separate seasons, and his 299 career steals are the most in the majors since 2013. He's also a tremendous defender, tallying 58 career defensive runs saved in center field - an attribute that could help him win a spot with the Giants, whose home field, Oracle Park, boasts a spacious outfield.

The 29-year-old has struggled at the plate throughout his career, though, slashing .242/.297/.326 over seven seasons. Last year, he put up a .564 OPS with 87 strikeouts, 32 walks, and only 22 steals in 119 games split between the Kansas City Royals and Atlanta Braves, though he hit well for the Braves down the stretch to help them reach the playoffs.

Hamilton will compete against several other veterans invited to camp, including Joey Rickard, Darin Ruf, and Brandon Guyer.

The Giants also officially announced the signing of reliever Nick Vincent to a minor-league deal with a spring invitation.

Earlier Friday, San Francisco and veteran outfielder Hunter Pence reportedly agreed to a major-league contract.

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