Red Sox, Ortiz agree to arbitration

BOSTON, Dec. 7 (UPI) -- The Boston Red Sox announced Wednesday designated hitter David Ortiz had agreed to arbitration, which will keep him with the team for at least another season.

An arbitrated contract means Ortiz will likely make more than the $12.5 million he earned last season. The Red Sox and Ortiz could still work out a multiyear deal before the arbitration hearing is held.

Ortiz, 36, has been in Boston since 2003. The Red Sox won the World Series in 2004 and 2007 with him in the lineup.

Although his power numbers have diminished, he hit 29 home runs with 96 RBI last season.

Ortiz has hit at least 25 home runs for Boston eight times, putting him second on the team's all-time list behind Ted Williams (14).

There have been recent reports the Red Sox have offered Ortiz a two-year contract worth $9 million a season. Ortiz has reportedly asked for more than twice that monetary amount over two years.