The Rangers have apparently avoided arbitration with rightfielder Nelson Cruz, agreeing with him on a two year deal that is reportedly worth $16 million. That contract would take him through the 2013, after which he would become a free agent.
The Rangers were offering $5.5 million in arbitration, with Cruz asking for $7.5 million. If we assume that they are splitting the difference, this would mean that Cruz is getting $6.5 million this year and $9.5 million in 2013.
Cruz has been a potent force in the Rangers lineup the past several years, but has also been plagued by leg injuries which have limited the time he's been able to be on the field. Cruz appeared in 124 games in 2011, and 108 games in 2010 after appearing in a career-high 128 games in 2009, his first full season as a starter on the major league level.