The Los Angeles Dodgers on Tuesday finalized their two-year contract with second baseman Mark Ellis, worth a reported $8.75 million in total. The deal includes a club option for the 2014 season.
"Mark brings a veteran presence to our lineup and he knows how to handle the bat," said general manager Ned Colletti. "On defense, he’s been one of the most dependable second basemen in baseball over the course of his career."
Known more for his defensive prowess than his bit, Ellis struggled offensively in 2011, hitting just .248/.288/.346 in 132 games. Ellis has missed time over the last two seasons with hamstring problems, and missed nearly two months in 2009 with a calf injury. Over the last four seasons, Ellis has averaged just 120 games.
Ellis was in Oakland from 2002 though June 2011, when he was traded to the Colorado Rockies in midseason. Ellis in 2005 and 2007 won the Catfish Hunter Award, "given annually to an A’s player whose play on the field and conduct in the clubhouse best exemplifies the courageous, competitive and inspirational spirit demonstrated by the A’s late Hall of Fame pitcher."
The Dodgers' infield now appears set, barring any other significant free agent signings or trades which seem unlikely at this point. James Loney will be at first base, Ellis at second, Dee Gordon at shortstop, and Juan Uribe at third base.
The Dodgers have 34 players on their 40-man roster.
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