LF FA
Thu 1/19/12 2:58 PM

Norichika Aoki's new contract with the Brewers guarantees salaries of $1 million in 2012 and $1.25 million in 2013. The deal also includes incentives and a club option for 2013. Aoki, who turned 30 earlier this month, was a .329 lifetime hitter in Japan and a Gold Glove winner for his defense in center field. While he doesn't project as a starter in MLB, he provides some much-needed outfield depth on a team that is bracing for the impact of Ryan Braun losing his appeal for a 50-game suspension.