VIERA, Fla. — Mike Cameron has told The Washington Nationals he is retiring after a 17-season career in which the center fielder won three Gold Gloves.

The former Mets outfielder signed a minor league contract with Washington in December and was expected to have a good shot to make the roster with the Nationals unsettled at center field.

The Nationals made the announcement Sunday, six days before position players were to report to spring training.

The 39-year old played for eight franchises, hitting .249 with 278 homers and 968 RBIs. Last year Cameron hit .203 in 78 games for Boston and Florida. Cameron played for the Mets in 2004 and 2005. The Mets traded Cameron to the Padres for Xavier Nady after the 2005 season.

Jayson Werth could start the season in center field for the Nationals, making room for 19-year-old phenom Bryce Harper in right field if he makes the team.

With Cameron’s retirement, Roger Bernadina and Rick Ankiel will likely be the top center field options beyond Werth and could platoon there if Harper starts the season in the minors.