Reds announce $15 million contract with Ludwick

Outfielder Ryan Ludwick signed a two-year, $15 million contract with the Cincinnati Reds, the club announced Monday.

Ludwick, 34, hit .275 with 26 home runs, 80 RBI and had an .877 OPS this year for the Reds.

"Ryan was very important to our success last year, and we're looking to keep that momentum going into next season," general manager Walt Jocketty said at a press conference. "He and his agents made it clear he enjoyed his time here last season and that he wanted to continue to play in Cincinnati. We know he had other offers, and we're glad we were able to reach an agreement to bring Ryan back for at least two more years."

The agreement was reported over the weekend.

Ludwick is a career .263 hitter with 143 RBI in 10 seasons with the Texas Rangers, Cleveland Indians, St. Louis Cardinals, San Diego Padres, Pittsburgh Pirates and Reds.

"I felt like last year was a good year, but I think we always strive to do better," Ludwick said. "Ultimately, I want to prove that the one year I was an All-Star (in 2008) wasn't a fluke and that I can be an All-Star again. And I think the ultimate goal would be to win a World Series, and that's why I came back here. We have the guys in place."

The left-fielder made $2 million in base salary this year.