Houston Astros avoid arbitration with Will Harris, ink two-year pact

Feb. 4 (UPI) -- Right-handed pitcher Will Harris is returning to the Houston Astros on a two-year deal, avoiding arbitration.

The 32-year-old reliever agreed to the $5 million contract on Saturday, according to the Houston Chronicle's Jake Kaplan. Kaplan reported that Harris will make $2.2 million in 2017 and $2.8 million in 2018. He has a club option for 2019 from $5.5 million to $8.5 million, depending on how many games he finishes.

"My family and I feel really blessed to have the opportunity to play at least the next two seasons in Houston," Harris told MLB.com. "I'm grateful to the Astros' organization and looking forward to getting to work this spring and to see the guys, and also getting to know the new guys we've added."

Harris, an All-Star last season, had a 2.25 ERA with 12 saves in 66 games for the Astros. He began his career in 2012 with the Colorado Rockies, before pitching for the Arizona Diamondbacks form 2013 to 2014. The Astros plucked him off of waivers in 2014. He has a 3.00 ERA, 11-12 record, and 14 saves in his five year MLB career.