The Yankees just announced they avoided arbitration with Russell Martin. He will be paid $7.5M, a source said.

Here is the release:&

The Yankees today announced that they have agreed with C Russell Martin on a one-year, non-guaranteed contract, thus avoiding arbitration.&

In 2011, Martin batted .237 (99-for-417) with 57R, 17 doubles, 18HR and 65RBI in 125 games (118 starts at catcher) in his first season with the Yankees. He led all Major League catchers with 35 baserunners caught stealing and was voted to his third career All-Star team.&

Originally selected by the Dodgers in the 17th round of the 2002 First-Year Player Draft, Martin owns a career .267 (737-for-2,761) batting average with 404R, 132 doubles, 72HR and 365RBI in 792 combined games with the Dodgers and Yankees. &