Houston Astros ink first baseman Marwin Gonzalez

Feb. 8 (UPI) -- First baseman Marwin Gonzalez avoided arbitration Wednesday, when he agreed to a deal with the Houston Astros.

Gonzalez, 27, signed a one-year, $3.725 million pact, according to Jon Heyman. The deal includes a $5.125 million team option for 2018. He filed for $4.2 million while the Astros countered at $3.25 million, before the parties agreed to settle in the middle.

The infielder hit .254 with 13 home runs, 51 RBI, and 12 stolen bases last season. The switch-hitter played every position in the infield and spent time in left field and center field. If the Astros don't pick up his 2018 option, Gonzalez will be arbitration eligible next winter.

Gonzalez was on Venezuela's provisional roster but won't play in the World Baseball Classic, according to reports. The lifetime .257 hitter has 37 career home runs in five seasons for the Astros.