Former Cherry Creek star Brad Lidge, Braves first baseman Mark Teixeira and White Sox third baseman Joe Crede led of a parade of players avoiding arbitration by signing contracts today.
Lidge, traded from the Astros to the Phillies in November, signed a one-year deal for $6.35 million. He can make an additional $100,000 if he finishes 55 games. Lidge went 5-3 with a 3.36 ERA and 19 saves last season in Houston.
Teixeira received $12.5 million a one-year deal. He can also earn $50,000 if he wins the Gold Glove.
Crede, who missed much of last year with an injury, agreed to a one-year, $5.1 million contract. Crede was critical to the White Sox’s World Series run in 2005.
Other contracts obtained by The Denver Post:
Toronto’s Scott Downs agreed to a three-year, $10 million deal. Gustavo Chacin ($725,000) and Brian Tallet ($640,000) also signed. Marco Scutaro agreed to a $2.65 million deal.
Oakland closer Huston Street, rumored to be on the trading block if he regains his health, signed a one-year, $3.3 million deal.
Atlanta reliever Mike Gonzalez signed a one-year deal for $2.36 million. He can earn an additional $200,000 if he finishes 60 games. Atlanta reliever Tyler Yates received $800,000 on a one-year deal.
Rays outfielder Jonny Gomes signed for $1.275 million. Gomes triggers a $25,000 incentive if he reaches 500 plate appearances.
Pirates infielder Jose Bautista avoided arbitration with a $1.8 million deal.
Angels outfielder Juan Rivera received a one-year, $2 million contract.
Phillies’ pitcher Ryan Madson pocketed $1.4 million.
Arizona’s Omar Infante, an infielder, received $1.4 million and can make $100,000 in incentives based on plate appearances.
Detroit’s Marcus Thames will make $1.275 million on a one-year deal.
Minnesota’s Jason Kubel agreed to $1.3 million with the possibility of achieving $25,000 in incentives.
The Rockies have five players eligible for arbitration — Matt Holliday, Garrett Atkins, Brian Fuentes, Brad Hawpe and Willy Taveras. None have agreed to deals yet.
Troy E. Renck: 303-954-1301 or trenck@denverpost.com
