Reds Announce Signing Of Outfielder Ryan Ludwick

The Cincinnati Reds announced today that they've signed Ryan Ludwick to a one-year contract with a mutual option for 2013. Ludwick will make $2.5 million in 2012.

Ludwick spent last season split between the Padres and Pirates, playing a total of 139 games. He batted .237 with 13 home runs. It was by far the worst season of his career, but the 33-year-old outfielder is determined to bounce back in 2012.

"Any time you've been counted down and out like I have for a year and a half, it's tough on you mentally," Ludwick told MLB.com. "I've been busting my butt to get back to where I was. I'll try to open some eyes, be a good teammate and help the club win. I think having another World Series in Cincinnati would be unbelievable. I'd like to get back to the playoffs myself. It's been since 2009 for me."

Ludwick is a career .261 hitter with 117 home runs over nine seasons in the major leagues. He had his best years between 2007 and '10 for the Cardinals, where he played under GM Walt Jocketty. Jocketty now runs the Reds.