The Cincinnati Reds have signed outfielder Ryan Ludwick to a two year deal worth $15 million. The contract goes through the 2014 season with a mutual option for 2015. During last season Ludwick hit .275 with 26 home runs and 80 RBIs. In a Reds news release General Manager Walt Jockety said the 34 year old was important to the Reds success last year and the team is looking to keep that momentum going into next season.
"He and his agents made it clear he enjoyed his time here last season and that he wanted to continue to play in Cincinnati. We know he had other offers, and we're glad we were able to reach an agreement to bring Ryan back for at least 2 more years."
In 2012, Ludwick was a finalist for the Players Choice Comeback Player of the Year Award and tied the club record for fewest errors in a season by a left fielder (1). As the Reds battled for the National League Central Division title, in his last 80 games of the season he hit .313 with 18 HR and 53 RBIs, including .421 in his last 57 at bats with runners in scoring position.
While Joey Votto missed 48 games with an injury in August and September, Ludwick led the Reds in hitting (.340), home runs (12, tied with Jay Bruce) and RBIs (36).
