Nationals put Murphy and Benoit on disabled list to start the season

WASHINGTON » Washington Nationals second baseman Daniel Murphy is headed to the 10-day disabled list as he recovers from offseason surgery on his right knee.

The Nationals put Murphy and righthanded reliever Joaquin Benoit on the DL on Tuesday, when Washington lost 3-1 to the Minnesota Twins in the final exhibition game for both teams.

Murphy had surgery on Oct. 20 and been expected to miss the start of this season.

He took grounders in the infield before Tuesday’s game and also participated in batting practice at Nationals Park.

In 2017, Murphy hit .322 with a .543 slugging percentage, 43 doubles, 23 homers and 93 RBIs. Benoit, 40, strained his right forearm.

Marte, D’backs finalize deal

PHOENIX » Infielder Ketel Marte and the Arizona Diamondbacks finalized a $24 million, five-year contract, a deal that contains a pair of club options that could make the agreement worth $46 million over seven seasons.

The 24-year-old was on track to become eligible for salary arbitration next winter and for free agency after the 2022 season. Marte batted .260 18 RBIs in 73 games. with five homers and

Mariners expected to sign Werth

SCOTTSDALE, ARIZ. » The Seattle Mariners are expected to sign Jayson Werth, 38, to a minor league contract, a deal contingent on a successful physical.

Manager Scott Servais said Werth likely would be at extended spring training a while.