The Washington Nationals have officially agreed to terms with Jerry Hairston Jr. on a one-year contract, according to a team press release.

Ken Rosenthal of FOXSports was the first to report that the sides agreed to a deal earlier today.  Jon Heyman of Sports Illustrated clarifies that Hairston will make $2 million plus $1 million in possible incentives.

Hairston’s ability to play multiple positions in the infield and outfielder will allow Washington the insurance in the event of injury or poor performance by a starter.

The 34-year-old signed a one-year, $2.125 million contract in January 2010 with the Padres and was open to returning to San Diego. In mid-December, we heard, that four or five teams were talking with Hairston and the market for him was “heating up”, according to his agent.

Bill Ladson of MLB.com was the first to report that the Nationals were looking at Hairston.