Cardinals, Jason Motte agree to two-year deal

Cardinals relief pitcher Jason Motte agreed to a 2-year deal worth $12 million. (Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)

The St. Louis Cardinals and relief pitcher Jason Motte agreed to a two-year deal on Tuesday, the team announced. 

By signing the deal, Motte avoids arbitration and will receive $12 million over the next two seasons.

Motte led the National League in saves last season with 42 and is eligible for free agency after the 2014 season.

Motte is 17-13 with a 2.87 ERA and 54 saves in his four seasons in the majors. Last season, Motte went 4-5 with a 2.75 ERA, 0.92 WHIP, 86 strikeouts and seven blown saves.  He also had three saves in the postseason for the Cardinals.