HOUSTON, Jan. 29 (UPI) -- Lance Berkman, who emerged as one of the top outfielders in the National League last season, has agreed to terms on a multi-year contract with the Houston Astros.
In his first full season, Berkman batted .331 with a major league leading 55 doubles, 34 home runs and 126 RBI in 156 games. He became the first switch-hitter with at least 30 homers and 50 doubles in a season.
Berkman, who turns 26 on February 10, joins Richard Hidalgo and Daryle Ward to give the Astros one of the best outfields in the majors.
Houston's veteran outfielder Moises Alou signed with the Chicago Cubs, opening up the third outfield position to Ward, who has displayed tremendous potential in the last three seasons in a limited role.
The 6-1, 205-pound Berkman was the 16th overall pick in the 1997 draft. He came up in 1999 and batted .237 with four homers and 15 RBI in 34 games. In 114 games the following season, he hit .297 with 21 homers and 67 RBI. Despite not having great speed, Berkman is a solid defensive outfielder.
