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Rangers assign Freel to Triple-A

MINNEAPOLIS -- The Texas Rangers have signed free agent Ryan Freel to a minor league contract.

Freel was assigned to Triple-A Oklahoma City on Friday. He was designated for assignment by Kansas City on Aug. 5 and given his unconditional release on Aug. 17.

This is the fourth organization for Freel this season. He has played a combined 41 games for Baltimore, Kansas City and the Chicago Cubs. He hit .193 with five RBIs.

His best stretch came with Cincinnati from 2004-06 when he stole 110 bases over the three seasons. He played a career-high 143 games and hit .277 with 28 RBIs in '04.

If he reaches the majors, the 33-year-old Freel would bring some versatility. He can play all three outfield positions as well as second and third base.