Padres sign catcher A.J. Ellis to minor league deal

The San Diego Padres announced they have signed catcher A.J. Ellis to a minor league contract with an invitation to spring training.

Ellis, 36, would be a backup to starter Austin Hedges if he makes the big league roster.

Ellis, known for his ability to call a game, spent most of his career with the Los Angeles Dodgers. He caught Clayton Kershaw's no-hitter on June 18, 2014, and was Kershaw's preferred catcher with the Dodgers.

The 10-year veteran was traded to the Philadelphia Phillies in August 2016.

Last season with the Miami Marlins, Ellis hit .210 with six homers in 51 games backing up J.T. Realmuto.

Ellis is a career .237 hitter with 43 homers.