CLEVELAND (AP) — All-Star closer Chris Perez and the Cleveland Indians have locked up a one-year contract to avoid arbitration.
Perez, who had 36 saves last season, will make $4.5 million in 2012. He earned $2.25 million last season, when he developed into one of the AL’s premier finishers.
The 26-year-old had 36 saves in 40 tries, ending the year with a save in his final nine chances.
Also, the Indians agreed to terms with set-up man Joe Smith on a one-year deal worth $1.75 million. He made $850,000 in 2011.
Smith went 3-3 with a 2.01 ERA in 71 games.
