By TOM WITHERS
AP Sports Writer
CLEVELAND (AP) -- Nick Johnson's career has been tattered, torn and twisted by injuries, way too many of them.
That might not stop the Cleveland Indians from giving him a job.
A person familiar with the negotiations told The Associated Press that the Indians are close to signing the oft-injured Johnson to a one-year contract that could include an option in 2012.
The 32-year-old Johnson, who played in just 24 games last season with the New York Yankees, could be signed in the next few days by the Indians, said the person who spoke to The AP on condition of anonymity because the sides still have several details to work through.
FOX Sports first reported the Indians' potential deal with Johnson.
Johnson has always been a productive player. His problem has been staying on the field.
He's only appeared in more than 100 games four times over the past eight seasons. Johnson's long list of injuries include strains, fractures and bruises. He missed the entire 2007 season after breaking his leg with the Washington Nationals. The past few seasons, he has been slowed by wrist injuries.
If signed by the Indians, Johnson could give the club depth at first base behind Matt LaPorta, and another DH to go with Travis Hafner.
Johnson does have a history with Indians manager Manny Acta. The two were together in Washington.
"He's a very good player," said Acta, who insisted he knew nothing about the club's interest in Johnson.
Updated March 1, 2011
