Dodgers, AJ Ellis agree to $4.25 million, 1-year deal

LOS ANGELES (AP) Catcher A.J. Ellis and the Los Angeles Dodgers have agreed to a $4.25 million, one-year contract, a $700,000 raise.

Ellis hit a career-low .191 last season while playing in 93 games. He spent time spent on the disabled list for knee surgery and a sprained ankle.

New general manager Farhan Zaidi recognized that Ellis is a leader on the club whose preparation and comfort level with the pitching staff is valuable. Ace Clayton Kershaw was vocal in his support of Ellis last season.

Ellis, who had been eligible to file for salary arbitration Tuesday, turns 34 in April.