Jupiter, FL (My Sportsbook) - The St. Louis Cardinals and outfielder Ryan Ludwick agreed to terms on a one-year contract for the 2009 season on Monday, avoiding arbitration. Financial terms of the deal were not disclosed. "We are extremely happy to have this deal completed," said St. Louis vice president and general manager John Mozeliak. "Everyone is ready to focus their attention on getting ready for the upcoming season. I know 'Luddy' is glad to get this behind him and is looking forward to the 2009 season." The 30-year-old Ludwick had the best season of his six-year career in 2008, earning his first All-Star nod during a campaign that established career-highs in batting average (.299), home runs (37), runs batted in (113) and games played (152). Over 376 games in the majors, which has included stints with Texas and Cleveland, he is a career .273 hitter with 65 homers and 209 RBI. Ludwick was the fifth and final arbitration eligible player for the Cardinals, who have not had a salary arbitration hearing since 1999. |
