11 seconds ago 2009-12-04T09:55:03-08:00
LOS ANGELES (Reuters) – The Los Angeles Angels signed veteran slugger Bobby Abreu to a two-year contract extension on Thursday.
Media reports said the deal was worth $19 million.
The 35-year-old Venezuelan joined on a one-year deal before the start of last season and enjoyed a productive campaign, batting .293 with 15 home runs and 103 RBI to help earn the Angels a spot in the American League championship series.
It marked the seventh consecutive season Abreu had batted in over 100 runs, matching Albert Pujols and Alex Rodriguez for the longest active streak in Major League Baseball.
"I am very happy to sign this contract," said Abreu on the team's website (http://losangeles.angels.mlb.com). "With the talent we have, I look forward to the opportunity of post-season competition once again."
A twice All-Star, Abreu appeared in 153 games for the Angels, joining Willie Mays, Billy Williams, Pete Rose and Cal Ripken as the only major leaguers to play 150 games or more for 12 straight seasons.
He has also stolen at least 20 bases in 11 consecutive seasons, the longest existing streak in baseball.
(Writing by Steve Keating in Toronto, editing by Tony Jimenez)
