Astros sign OF Michaels to one-year deal

Dec 15, 2008 - 5:23 PM HOUSTON (Ticker) -- The Houston Astros on Monday signed outfielder Jason Michaels to a one-year contract worth $750,000, plus incentives.

Michaels, 32, batted .224 with eight home runs and 53 RBI in 123 games with Cleveland and Pittsburgh last season.

"Jason fits the profile of the type of role player that we like to have," Astros general manager Ed Wade said. "He's a solid player with good makeup and he brings another veteran presence to the Astros.

"He can play all three outfield positions, can, if needed, go out there and play on a regular basis, and can give you a professional at-bat in a tough situation."

For his career, Michaels is a .271 hitter with 45 home runs and 247 RBI with Philadelphia, Cleveland and Pittsburgh.