Pinch-hit specialist Norton agrees to $800K deal to stay in Atlanta

ATLANTA -- Greg Norton and the Braves agreed Friday to an $800,000, one-year contract, a deal that keeps the pinch-hit specialist in Atlanta.

The 36-year-old Norton led the major leagues with three homers, 18 RBI and 17 walks as a pinch-hitter last season. A switch-hitter, he ranked second with 18 pinch hits.

Norton was acquired from Seattle in May and played first base, left field and right field with the Braves. He hit .262 with seven homers and 35 RBI in 117 games with Atlanta and Seattle, including .323 with five homers after the All-Star break.

Norton ranks second among active players with 85 career pinch hits.

In addition to his salary, Norton can earn about $300,000 more in performance bonuses.