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The Honolulu Advertiser
Updated at 8:08 a.m., Wednesday, February 18, 2009

MLB: Braves 2B Kelly Johnson agrees to new contract

Associated Press

KISSIMMEE, Fla.— The Atlanta Braves agreed Wednesday on a $2.825 million, one-year contract with second baseman Kelly Johnson, avoiding a salary arbitration hearing.

Johnson, who made $430,000 last season, was asking for a salary of $3.3 million in arbitration. The Braves countered with an offer of $2.35 million. The two sides split the difference right down the middle to avoid a scheduled hearing Thursday.

Last season, Johnson hit .287 with 12 homers, 69 RBIs and 11 stolen bases. He turns 27 on Sunday.

The signing of Johnson left outfielder Jeff Francoeur as the only unsigned player in Braves camp. He was scheduled for an arbitration hearing Friday, seeking a salary of $3.95 million. The Braves have offered $2.8 million.