Rays re-sign OF Gabe Kapler

Gabe Kapler decided he didn't need to test the free agent market because he likes where he is.
So the platoon outfielder re-signed with the Rays, taking a one-year deal for $1.05 million, the club announced Wednesday. That's a slight increase from his 2008 salary.

"The reason I made the quick decision is I felt a strong sense of loyalty to the organization," Kapler said from California. "I know that when guys are happy where they are, sometimes the best thing to do is get back where you're happy.

"I really enjoyed my season, and I feel like there's kind of some unfinished business there. My belief is I have a lot to contribute, and this team has the ability to reach the postseason and the World Series next year."

The Rays signed Kapler before last season for his bat against left-handed pitching, and after a slow start, he came on to hit .276 with eight home runs, 30 RBIs and a .379 on-base percentage against lefties. Overall, he hit .239 with 32 RBIs.

Kapler is a .291 career hitter against lefties (.270 overall) while playing for six major-league teams over 13 seasons. He has also played for Detroit, Texas, Boston, Colorado and Milwaukee.

He also managed the Red Sox single-A team in Greenville, S.C., for one season (2007).

With Carl Crawford in left field and B.J. Upton in center, Kapler could again platoon in right and provide depth and pinch-hitting. The Rays have a crowded situation in right, with All-Star Ben Zobrist, Gabe Gross, Fernando Perez, Matt Joyce and Justin Ruggiano also in the mix.

Rays executive vice president Andrew Friedman said Kapler will a "valuable piece of the puzzle" next year.

"Over the past two years, Kap has been one of the best in baseball against left-handed pitching," he said. "Because he's also a plus defensive outfielder, he's becoming a tremendous asset here. His value even extends beyond the field; his knowledge and presence make him a positive influence on our younger players."

Kapler, who is known for his fitness, said he has already begun his offseason strength and conditioning program and will carry that to spring training.

"I'll just build toward spring training and then also work a lot on the mental side of the game, which is really important to me," he said. "I mean, I just feel like as players, we don't address that, and I have my ways of addressing that."