Trevor Plouffe reaches 1-year deal to be A's primary third baseman

OAKLAND, Calif. -- Infielder Trevor Plouffe has finalized a $5.25 million, one-year contract with the Oakland Athletics and is expected to be the primary third baseman if he can stay healthy.

Plouffe can earn an additional $750,000 in performance bonuses based on plate appearances as part of the agreement announced Wednesday: $150,000 for 350, and $300,000 each for 450 and 525.

Plouffe went on the disabled list for three different injuries last season with Minnesota. He began the year as Minnesota's starting third baseman and hit a career-best .260 with 12 home runs and 47 RBIs in 84 games.

Plouffe was batting .302 with two home runs and six RBIs in 12 games before his first time on the DL on April 19 with a right rib cage strain. He was sidelined again from July 2 to Aug. 7 because of a broken left rib, then didn't play again after Sept. 6 because of a strained left hamstring.

The 30-year-old Plouffe provides versatility, as he can also play first base. He made 13 starts there and 60 at third last season.

Oakland designated right-hander Zach Neal for assignment.