Cubs Sign Jose Hernandez

Utilityman Jose Hernandez today avoided arbitration with the Chicago Cubs, agreeing to a one-year contract worth a reported $342,857 for every position he played in 1998.

According to broadcast reports in Chicago, the omnipresent Hernandez will collect a $1.675 raise from his $725,000 deal last season and $250,000 in incentives. He earned it by setting career highs in most offensive categories while playing seven different positions.

Hernandez's versatility and powerful presence helped the Chicago Cubs into the postseason as the National League's wild card. He played 72 games at third base, 45 at shortstop, 31 in leftfield, 31 in center, two in right, three at first base and two at second.

The 29-year-old Hernandez established career highs in most offensive categories, hitting .254 with 23 home runs, 75 RBI and 140 strikeouts. He provided a needed boost for the Cubs, who midway through the season suffered from injury and disappointment in the outfield and left side of the infield.

Hernandez has spent his entire five-year career with the Cubs and is a .242 lifetime hitter with 54 homers and 195 RBI. He was acquired June 1, 1993 from the Cleveland Indians for once-effective closer Heathcliffe Slocumb.

Today's agreement leaves the Cubs with three arbitration-eligibles -- relievers Terry Adams and Matt Karchner and catcher Tyler Houston.

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