For $2.8M, Gardner avoids arbitration with Yanks

NEW YORK (AP) -- Speedy outfielder Brett Gardner and the New York Yankees have agreed to a one-year, $2.85 million contract that avoids salary arbitration.

Gardner can earn $150,000 in performance bonuses under Friday's deal: $25,000 each for 375, 400, 425, 450, 475 and 500 plate appearances.

Gardner was limited to 31 at-bats last season because of a right elbow injury that sidelined him from mid-April until late September. He made $2.8 million.

New York also announced infielder Jayson Nix cleared waivers and was sent outright to Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre.