Angels, Morales agree, avoid arbitration

ANAHEIM, Calif., Jan. 11 (UPI) -- The Los Angeles Angels said first baseman Kendrys Morales agreed to a 1-year contract with the team Wednesday, avoiding arbitration.

Morales, 28, agreed to a new deal 1 1/2 years after breaking his left ankle while jumping onto home plate during the celebration of a May 29, 2010, game-ending grand slam.

The switch-hitter hasn't played in the interim, during which he has undergone several surgical procedures, including a bone graft and surgery to remove scar tissue in May 2011.

Morales has been medically cleared to participate in baseball-related activities.

The native of Cuba clubbed 34 home runs with 108 RBI while batting .306 for the Angles in 2009.