Jason Wise/MLB Photos via Getty Images(SAN DIEGO) -- Third baseman Chase Headley agreed to a one-year, $8.5 million contract with the San Diego Padres Wednesday, avoiding salary arbitration.

Headley will make $5.1 million more than he did last season.

"The process of arbitration is never that easy, and in this case, it's a good raise," Padres general manager Josh Byrnes said. "We're happy it's done. Chase earned his salary."

Headley had a breakout season last year. He hit .286 with a career-high 31 homers and he led the National League with 115 RBIs. Headley also won a Silver Slugger award and a gold glove, while finishing fifth in the NL MVP voting.

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