Adam LaRoche Signs with Diamondbacks

The Arizona Diamondbacks continued reshaping their infield with the addition of Adam LaRoche, who will make between $4-5 million next season. The 30 year-old LaRoche put up a .277 batting average to go along with 25 HR and 83 RBI last season split between the Pirates and Braves. His output picked up considerably after being traded to Atlanta, where he hit .325 over the course of 57 games with the Braves.

LaRoche reportedly turned down a two-year deal from the Giants earlier this offseason. Once the Giants landed Aubrey Huff as their new cleanup hitter, the market for LaRoche took a serious hit. He is still young enough that his one year deal with the D-Backs should land him a lucrative, multi-year contract next off season should he have another good year at the plate.

Arizona has been busy this winter so far, signing Kelly Johnson from the Braves and pitcher, Bob Howry. The D-Backs also were part of a three-team deal that landed Edwin Jackson from the Tigers and Ian Kennedy from the Yankees. This will also be the first full season for manager A.J. Hinch, who took over for Bob Melvin following a disappointing 12-17 start to the 2009 season.

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