LOS ANGELES, Jan. 30 (UPI) -- Jolbert Cabrera, one of the most useful bench players in the major leagues, Friday avoided arbitration with Los Angeles by agreeing to a one-year contract.
Financial terms of the deal were not disclosed, but Cabrera had sought $1.35 million through arbitration. The team countered with $850,000, nearly double the $435,000 he made in 2003.
The 31-year-old Cabrera hit .282 with 32 doubles, six homers and 37 RBI in 347 at bats over 128 games for Los Angeles last season. He was one of four players in the major leagues last season to play seven positions.
"Jolbert is a very valuable part of our ballclub," said Dodgers General Manager Dan Evans. "His abilities and versatility allow Jim Tracy the flexibility to insert him almost anywhere on the field and in the lineup."
