Angels bringing back Abreu
Last Updated: Thursday, November 5, 2009 | 7:35 PM ET
By Chris Iorfida, CBC Sports
Bobby Abreu, left, completed his first season with the Los Angeles Angels. (Kevork Djansezian/Getty Images)The Los Angeles Angels announced on Thursday that they had re-signed veteran outfielder Bobby Abreu to a two-year deal worth $19 million US.
The 35-year-old was in his first season with Los Angeles after spending the previous three with the New York Yankees. He hit 15 home runs and drove in 103 runs with a .293 batting average.
Abreu went 9-for-34 in the American League playoffs for a 265. average, knocking in three runs.
The deal includes a team option for an additional year in 2012.
"We are excited to have Bobby and the presence he brings to our organization," said Angels general manager Tony Reagins in a statement. "He was an integral part of what we accomplished in 2009, and we look forward to his contributions both on and off the field."
The Turmero, Venezuela, native has also played for Houston and Philadelphia in a career that began in 1996, hitting 256 home runs with 1,187 RBIs, with a .299 average.
While Abreu has struck out at least 100 times in each of the last 12 seasons, he's also regularly finished in the top 10 in walks. He drew 94 walks the past season, tying for third in the American League.
Angels manager Mike Scioscia labeled Abreu as the team's most valuable player late in the season.
"I feel so comfortable with my teammates and the organization, and to play for Mike Scioscia is awesome," Abreu said. "He's one of those managers that lets you play the game, and he gives you big support. … I really wanted to stay. The conversation was going good. I decided to just say yes."
Abreu's new contract calls for $9 million salaries in each of the next two seasons. It includes a 2012 option for $9 million with a $1 million buyout, and the option would become guaranteed if Abreu has 550 plate appearances in 2011 or 1,200 in 2010-11 combined.
The Angels still have six potential free agents, including outfielder Vladimir Guerrero, ace pitcher John Lackey and third baseman Chone Figgins.
With files from The Associated Press
