Red Sox sign Bailey

THE ASSOCIATED PRESS

BOSTON -- The Boston Red Sox agreed to terms Wednesday with right-handed pitcher Andrew Bailey on a one-year contract worth US$3.9 million.

The deal avoids arbitration. Bailey, who made $465,000 last year, asked for $4.7 million; the team offered $3.35 million.

Bailey was acquired from the Oakland Athletics this winter. The 27-year-old right-hander converted 24 of 26 save opportunities with a 3.24 earned-run average for the A's in 2011. The Red Sox shipped outfielder Josh Reddick, infield prospect Miles Head and minor league pitcher Raul Alcantara to Oakland for the All-Star closer and outfielder Ryan Sweeney.

Bailey can earn an additional $100,000 in performance bonuses: $50,000 each for 50 and 55 games finished.

Designated hitter David Ortiz and right-hander Alfredo Aceves are the only remaining Red Sox players eligible for salary arbitration.