McEwing a Royal

Associated Press

SURPRISE, Ariz. -- Joe McEwing signed a minor league contract with the Kansas City Royals and was invited to spring training Tuesday, five days after being released by the New York Mets.

The 32-year-old McEwing was hitting .133 this spring (2-for-15) when he was given the option of staying and working out with the Mets or being released outright. He opted to be released.

Kansas City is in need of a utility player who can play third base. Mark Teahen, who has no major league experience, is the only true third baseman left in camp. McEwing, Denny Hocking and Luis Ugueto, two non-roster invitees, can fill that role.

McEwing hit .254 with one home run and 16 RBIs in 75 games with the Mets. He played all three outfield positions, first base, second base, shortstop and third base last season.

In 664 games with the Mets and St. Louis Cardinals over seven seasons, McEwing has a .253 batting average with 24 home runs and 152 RBIs.