Mitch Moreland Re-Signs with Red Sox on 2-Year Contract for Reported $13 Million

The Boston Red Sox and free-agent first baseman Mitch Moreland have decided to extend their partnership. 

The team announced Monday the two sides agreed to terms on a two-year deal to keep Moreland in the fold as an infield staple.

According to Jerry Crasnick of ESPN.com, the total deal is worth $13 million, plus another possible $1 million in incentives. 

Moreland spent the first seven years of his career with the Texas Rangers, but free-agent eligibility following the 2016 season allowed him to pursue a new path elsewhere. 

That opportunity presented itself in the form a one-year, $5.5 million deal with the Red Sox. 

In 149 appearances during his first season with the reigning American League East champions, Moreland slashed .246/.326/.443 with a .796 OPS—all numbers that were right in line with or slightly better than his career averages. 

The 32-year-old also cranked 22 home runs and produce 79 RBI to complement a career-high 34 doubles. 

Moreland also remained quite steady in the field. 

Holding down the fort at first for the Red Sox, the 2016 Gold Glove winner tied for second among all players at his position with 10 defensive runs saved, according to FanGraphs. Moreland's 4.0 UZR also ranked tied for fourth overall among first basemen with the Chicago Cubs' Anthony Rizzo. 

If there's a knock on Moreland at this stage in his career, it's that he's not going hit for average considering he hasn't batted higher than .250 in either of the past two seasons. 

Moreland's big year at the plate in Boston was also accompanied by a career-high 120 strikeouts, although he did tally an encouraging 57 walks compared to 35 the year prior. 

But considering the Red Sox aren't paying a particularly hefty price for his services, Moreland should continue to suffice as a solid two-way contributor who can offer big pop in spots.