NEW YORK, Dec. 5 (UPI) -- Free agent third baseman Robin Ventura has signed a one-year contract for 2003 for lesser money to stay with the New York Yankees.
Ventura, 35, also took a sizeable pay cut.
No terms were released, but the New York Daily News reported Wednesday that the contract would be worth $5 million. Ventura made $8.25 million last season.
"Robin Ventura's production and veteran leadership were invaluable to the Yankees in 2002," said General Manager Brian Cashman. "We look forward to him being a key contributor in
our quest for another world championship in 2003."
The Yankees acquired Ventura from the New York Mets last winter, and he was expected to play there third base for one year until prized prospect Drew Henson was ready. It became evident that Henson, who struggled in the minors, would not be ready in 2003.
Because of that, the Yankees wanted to bring Ventura back.
He batted hit .247 with 27 homers and 93 RBI last season, and his easy-going personality made him a popular figure in the clubhouse. He struggled in the second half, hitting .227 with eight homers and 31 RBI.
Ventura hit .286 with a team-high four RBI in the Division Series loss to the Anaheim Angels.
