Sources: Rockies reach deal with Mora

The Rockies, shut out in their attempt to sign free-agent shortstop Orlando Cabrera, have reached an agreement on a one-year, $1.3 million deal with infielder Melvin Mora, according to major-league sources.

Cabrera agreed to a deal with the Reds on Saturday night for a one-year, $4 million free-agent contract, preferring to remain at shortstop than play second base or move into a utility role.

Mora, who turns 38 on Tuesday, is expected to fill a super-utility role. He returns to the National League after spending more than nine seasons with the Orioles, who acquired him from the Mets at the trade deadline in 2000.

The Orioles had used Mora as their primary third baseman since 2004, but Mora spent the winter training for a return to his old utility role. He has played 814 career games at third, but also has spent significant time at shortstop, left and center fields.

A career .278 hitter, Mora slumped badly last season, producing his lowest OPS since 2001. The Rockies believe that he might be energized by a fresh start.