HOUSTON -- The Astros avoided arbitration with reigning World Series Most Valuable Player George Springer, agreeing to a two-year deal with the All-Star center fielder on Monday. A source confirmed for MLB.com the deal is worth $24 million.
General manager Jeff Luhnow announced the deal, though the terms were not disclosed.
"I'm happy that we reached a multiyear deal with George, recognizing his accomplishments and his contribution, but also recognizing there's more to come," Luhnow said. "We're excited to be able to turn our focus to winning ballgames and not what the player has or hasn't done, because in George's case, he's been pretty exceptional."
Video: Springer, Astros agree to two-year deal
Springer, who earned $3.9 million last year in his first year of arbitration, had asked the Astros for $10.5 million in 2018 in arbitration, and the team countered with $8.5 million. Springer, who will have four years of arbitration eligibility because of his Super Two status, will have one more year of arbitration eligibility in '20 before becoming a free agent.
Springer, 28, made his first All-Star team in 2017 and finished the season with a .283 batting average, 34 home runs and 85 RBIs. All 34 of his homers came from the leadoff spot in the batting order, setting a franchise record, and his nine homers to lead off the first inning were the most in the Majors.
After going 0-for-4 with four strikeouts in Game 1 of the World Series against the Dodgers, Springer rallied to hit .379 in the Series with five homers and seven RBIs. He hit the go-ahead two-run homer that helped the Astros to a comeback win in Game 2 and hit a two-run homer in Game 7 that put the Astros up, 5-0, in the second inning.
The Astros have one remaining arbitration-eligible player. Starting pitcher Collin McHugh is asking for $5 million, and the Astros filed for $4.55 million. McHugh missed the first 3 1/2 months of last year with an arm injury before pitching well in the second half, going 5-2 with a 3.55 ERA in 12 starts.