The Yankees have avoided arbitration with outfielder Brett Gardner, reaching a one-year deal worth $2.8 million. This is Gardner's first year with arbitration eligibility.

Gardner led the Yankees with a .383 on-base percentage in 2010. He regressed a bit in 2011, with his OBP falling to .345, but remained a threat on the base paths. He tied for the American League lead with 49 stolen bases.

The team has already avoided arbitration with a trio of pitchers: Joba Chamberlain, Phil Hughes and David Robertson. They still must reach deals with catcher Russell Martin and reliever Boone Logan.

Andy McCullough: amccullough@starledger.com; twitter.com/McCulloughSL

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