Graffanino, Brewers agree on 1-year deal

Infielder Tony Graffanino and the Milwaukee Brewers agreed Friday to a $3.25 million, one-year contract, avoiding a salary arbitration hearing.

The 34-year-old hit .280 last season with two homers and 28 RBIs in 236 at-bats, then became a free agent. He was offered salary arbitration by the Brewers on Dec. 1 and accepted the offer six days later, making him a signed player.

In addition to his salary, he would earn a $50,000 bonus if he starts 120 games.

Milwaukee had submitted a $2.8 million figure Tuesday in arbitration, and Graffanino asked for $3.7 million.

Three Brewers remain in arbitration: catcher Johnny Estrada, utilityman Bill Hall and right-hander Claudio Vargas.

Left-hander Chris Capuano agreed to a $3.25 million, one-year deal Wednesday, a day after outfielder Kevin Mench accepted a $3.4 million, one-year contract.