The Cardinals have avoided arbitration with relief pitcher Jordan Walden.
Walden, 27, and the Cardinals agreed to a two-year deal worth $6.6 million. With the deal the Cardinals have the right handed reliever locked up for two years and have a club option worth $5.25 million for the 2017 season.
Acquired the in the trade that brought outfielder Jason Heyward to St. Louis, Walden is expected to move into a setup role with Carlos Martinez shifting to the rotation this season.
Walden appeared in 58 games for the Braves this past year compiling a 2.88 ERA and a 1.20 WHIP while recording three saves.
