The Padres announced today that they will sign 37-year-old veteran Matt Carpenter, who was resurrected by the Yankees this year, on a two-year, $12 million contract.
According to foreign media reports, the salary in the first year of this contract is US$6.5 million, and the second year is a player option of US$5.5 million. If the number of games played exceeds 550 every year, incentive bonuses can be obtained. This two-year contract can receive up to US$21 million.
Carpenter played 130 games with the Cardinals last year and only posted a batting average of 1.69% and 3 home runs. He signed a minor league contract with the Rangers at the beginning of this season, but was released before he even played a game in the major leagues. After signing a major league contract with the Yankees on May 26, his performance exploded. He played in a total of 47 games and posted a batting average of 305%, 15 home runs, 37 RBIs, and an offensive index (OPS) of 1.139.
However, Carpenter suffered a fracture in his left foot due to self-playing in early August and was absent for 2 months. After returning in the playoffs, his performance was poor, with only 1 hit in 12 at-bats and 9 strikeouts .
Carpenter played first base, third base, left field and right field last year. Since the Padres have a complete lineup, he is expected to play the role of utility man and designated hitter.
