Colorado Rockies general manager Dan O'Dowd spent the better part of last season trying to acquire versatile Ty Wigginton, but he never could satisfy the trade desires of the Baltimore Orioles.

With Wigginton a free agent this offseason, O'Dowd finally got his man.

The Rockies agreed on a contract with Wigginton in the early hours on Tuesday.

The deal's guaranteed for two years, $7.5 million, including a $500,000 buyout for 2013.

The Rockies don't have the everyday job Wigginton was hoping to find, but he has the type of versatility that could lead to plenty of playing time for a right-handed hitter on a team filled with left-handed bats.

The Rockies' projected starters include left-handed hitters at first base (Todd Helton), third base (Ian Stewart), left field (Carlos Gonzalez) and right field (Seth Smith).

In recent years, Wigginton's primarily played first and third base, but he's also seen time in the outfield and at second base. He'll be the second right-handed-hitting outfield option for the Rockies, behind Ryan Spilborghs, but the No. 1 option behind Helton and Stewart at first and third.

The Rockies will continue to look for a backup catcher, with Bengie Molina and Ronny Paulino both candidates, and bullpen help. Jesse Crain, who grew up in Boulder, Colo., remains high on the Rockies' list of free-agent pitchers.

Wigginton's hit more than 20 home runs in four of his past five seasons.

-Tracy Ringolsby