Aviles agrees to $6M, 2-year deal with Indians

In five major league seasons, Aviles has hit .277 with 39 home runs, 190 RBI, and 51 stolen bases.

Mark L. Baer-US PRESSWIRE/

CLEVELAND (AP) -- Infielder Mike Aviles and the Cleveland Indians agreed Thursday to a $6 million, two-year contract that includes a club option for 2015.

Aviles, acquired from Toronto in November, projects to give the Indians depth at second base, shortstop and the outfield. He spent last season as Boston's primary shortstop, batting .250 with 13 homers and 60 RBIs in 136 games.

Aviles' deal would be worth $9.25 million over three years if the option is exercised, and he could earn $500,000 annually in performance bonuses. The 31-year-old receives a $1 million signing bonus and salaries of $1.75 million this season and $3 million in 2014, and the Indians hold a $3.5 million option in 2015 with a $250,000 buyout.

He would earn $100,000 each year for reaching 550 plate appearances, and $200,000 apiece for 600 and 625.

By reaching the agreement with Aviles, the Indians avoided going to salary arbitration for the 22nd straight season. The Indians have not gone to an arbitration hearing with a player since 1991.

Aviles set a career-high in doubles (28) last season and matched personal bests in extra-base hits (41) and steals (14).

He may get some at-bats as designated hitter. New manager Terry Francona has said he may use several players in the role.