Royals avoid arbitration with speedy Dyson on 1-year deal
The Kansas City Royals avoided arbitration with speedster Jarrod Dyson on Tuesday by agreeing to a one-year, $1.225-million deal.
Dyson, who was entering his first year of arbitration this winter, had been seeking a $1.6 million salary next season. The Royals countered with $900,000 when the two sides exchanged figures earlier this month.
The 30-year-old outfielder can earn an additional $25,000 by making 350 plate appearances and $50,000 if he's selected to the All-Star Game, according to Jon Heyman of CBS Sports. He made $530,000 in 2014.
Dyson appeared in 120 games last year for the American League champions, but was mostly used as a late-inning defensive replacement. He slashed .269/.324/.327 across 290 plate appearances.
Dyson, whose 100 stolen bases since 2012 rank seventh in the majors, swiped a career-high 36 bases in 43 attempts last year - his third straight season with at least 30 steals.
Royals manager Ned Yost utilized his speed frequently during Kansas City's postseason run, including in its improbable comeback victory over the Oakland Athletics in the wild card game.
Dyson, who entered the game in the bottom of the ninth as a pinch-runner, stole third base before scoring the tying run in the Royals' eventual 9-8 win.