HOUSTON, Dec. 14 -- The Houston Astros Thursday announced it has retained second baseman Craig Biggio by signing the free agent to a four-year contract with a fifth year option included at the club's discretion. The contract is worth $20 million for the first four years plus an additional $5 million for the option year.
The Astros can elect to exercise a buyout of the option year for $2 million. The deal was announced on Biggio's 30th birthday. Last year, he batted .302 with a club-record 123 runs scored, most in the majors. He also hit 22 home runs, drove in 77 runs and stole 33 bases. 'Retaining Craig was a top priority this off-season, and we're extremely excited that he has elected to remain both an Astro and also a key member of the Houston community,' said Astros owner Drayton McLane. 'He has been a part of this organization his entire career, and his dedication to his teammates, community and family make him an invaluable asset as we continue our charge to become champions.' Biggio, whose entire eight-year career has been with the Astros, was the National League's starting second baseman in the 1995 All-Star Game, becoming the first Astro elected as a starter since center fielder Cesar Cedeno in 1973. An All-Star in four of his past five season, Biggio has also been the recipient of a Gold Glove Award each of the last two seasons. He was drafted by the Astros in the first round of the 1987 June draft and has spent his entire professional career with the Astros. As a free agent, Biggio had received offers from the Astros, Rockies, San Diego Padres and St. Louis Cardinals. The Cardinals had offered $25 million over five years.
