CHICAGO, Dec. 28 (UPI) -- The Chicago White Sox Wednesday signed right-hander Jon Garland to a three-year, $29 million contract.
Garland, 26, avoided arbitration and gave up the chance to explore the free-agent market for a bigger offer after the 2006 season.
On the way to a 2005 spot on the American League all-star team, the 6-foot-6 inch Garland won his first eight starts and fashioned a 10-game winning streak. He was 13-4 at the break and finished the season at 18-10 with an ERA of 3.50, hurling three shutouts in 32 starts.
The White Sox will pay Garland $7 million in 2006, $10 million in 2007 and $12 million in 2008. In six major league seasons, Garland is 64-61 with an ERA of 4.42 over 1,009 innings.
His signing left the White Sox with only third baseman Joe Crede and outfielder Rob Mackowiak eligible for salary arbitration.
