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Rafael Furcal re-signs with the Dodgers

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Rafael Furcal passed his physical today, finalizing his three-year, $30-million contract with the Dodgers.

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“You can’t overestimate Raffy’s value to the team,” Dodgers Manager Joe Torre said in a statement released by the club. “He brings so much more to the table than just his ability to play the game. The players feed off his energy and I think he’s an integral piece of the puzzle. I look forward to having that leadership in a Dodger uniform for the next several years.”

Furcal, 31, will earn $6.5 million next season, $9.5 million in 2010 and $12 million in 2011. If he makes 600 plate appearances in 2011, his $12-million option for 2012 will become guaranteed.

Furcal will receive a $3-million signing bonus when the contract expires.

Here’s the Dodgers’ press release:

The National League West Division Champion Los Angeles Dodgers today signed shortstop Rafael Furcal to a three-year contract with a vesting option for the 2012 season. General Manager Ned Colletti made the announcement. “Raffy has proven to be a very important player for us over the last three seasons,” said Colletti. “He sets a great example with his enthusiasm and passion for the game and his teammates.” “You can’t overestimate Raffy’s value to the team,” said Dodger Manager Joe Torre. “He brings so much more to the table than just his ability to play the game. The players feed off his energy and I think he’s an integral piece of the puzzle. I look forward to having that leadership in a Dodger uniform for the next several years.” Furcal in 2008 was among several offensive leaders prior to going on the disabled list on May 6 because of an injured lower back. Furcal led the majors with 49 hits and 34 runs scored at the time he went on the DL. He also ranked second in the majors at that time with a .366 average and third with a .448 on-base percentage. The switch-hitter returned to the club during the final week of the regular season, and went on to start at shortstop in each of the Dodgers’ eight postseason games. Furcal had undergone back surgery on July 3, a microdiscectomy performed by Dr. Robert Watkins at Marina del Rey Hospital.

-- Dylan Hernandez

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