Everyone's favorite everyday shortstop Alexi Amarista has avoided arbitration by signing a two year $2.5 million contract. He'll get $1.1 million in his first year and $1.3 million in his second, plus a $100k signing bonus. Manager Bud Black and a small group of fans that crush on Amarista are said to be stoked out of their minds.
Alexi amarista, padres agree to $2.5M, 2-year deal
— Jon Heyman (@JonHeymanCBS) January 16, 2015As much as the Padres outfield has improved in the off-season the infield still looks relatively weak at this point. One would hope that A.J. Preller still has a few tricks up his sleeve to upgrade the powerless positions.
Padres avoid arbitration with Alexi Amarista, settle on two-year deal | UTSanDiego.com
General Manager A.J. Preller, who has overhauled the offense in most other places, might still seek an upgrade. If he does, Amarista may return a utility role.
Amarista is cheap and isn't a bad guy to have off the bench. I admit I have a fun time watching him play because he's so little. I, for one, welcome him with open arms.