CLEVELAND -- Third baseman Casey Blake avoided arbitration by agreeing Friday to a $6.1 million, one-year contract with the Cleveland Indians.
Blake, who can become a free agent after this season, had been seeking $6.9 million. Cleveland offered $5.4 million to the versatile 34-year-old, who made $3.75 million last year.
Blake, who signed with the Indians as a free agent in 2002, hit .270 with 18 homers last season. He began last season at first base and as backup outfielder, but moved to third base when Andy Marte was injured and then demoted to the minor leagues. Blake started 134 games at third base.
The club hasn't gone to arbitration with a player since 1991.
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