Though unable to find common ground on a long-term deal with Matt Holliday, the Rockies were able to secure the All-Star outfielder on a two-year, $23 million contract today, according to contract information obtained by The Denver Post, taking him through his final arbitration seasons.
He will make $9.5 million this season, followed by $13.5 million next season. There also will be standard awards incentives. Holliday finished second in the National League MVP voting.
The 28-year-old slugger hit .340 last season with 36 home runs and 137 RBIs.
Earlier this morning, Rockies center fielder Willy Taveras avoided arbitration, signing a one-year, $1.975-million contract.
Taveras, who is penciled in as the club’s leadoff hitter, can make an additional $150,000 in incentives: $50,000 for 500 plate appearances, 550 and 600.
Taveras hit .320 last season with 33 stolen bases.
Taveras and Holliday joined a stream of players who continue to avoid arbitration, with Minnesota Twins former MVP Justin Morneau headlining this morning’s signings.
Morneau, a slugging first baseman, agreed to a one-year, $7.4-million deal. Carlos Pena, a surprise star for the Tampa Bay Devil Rays last year, signed a one-year, $6 million deal. The Rays have discussed a long-term deal with the first baseman after his breakout season.
The Rockies have three arbitration-eligible players remaining: Garrett Atkins, Brian Fuentes and Brad Hawpe.
Others who have signed in the last few hours with contracts obtained by The Denver Post include:
