Spiezio earns new deal

After helping the Anaheim Angels to the 2002 World Series, Spiezio spent two unproductive seasons in Seattle before being released by the Mariners and eventually signing a minor league contract with the Cardinals.

Spiezio revived his career in St. Louis as a utility player, appearing in 119 games taking turns at first, second and third base as well as left and right field while belting 13 homers and driving across 52 runs.

"You hear the term 'winning player'," St Louis general manager Walt Jocketty said in a statement. "Scott showed once again why he has been tabbed with such a label.

"Scott's leadership, versatility and production in the clutch are such strong qualities and we're happy to announce that he will remain a Cardinal."

The Detroit Tigers, who lost the World Series to the Cardinals, also announced a key signing of their AL championship team, inking slugging first baseman Sean Casey to a one-year $4 million contract.

Acquired by the Tigers at the July 31 trade deadline, Casey batted .245 and drove in 30 runs in 53 regular season games in a Detroit uniform but saved his best for the playoffs going 9-for-17, including back-to-back three efforts in Games Four and Five of the World Series.

"I'm thrilled to be back with Detroit," Casey said via teleconference from his home in Pittsburgh. "My experience there was just first class all the way. I felt like it was my number one choice to come back there, and I'm thrilled that they wanted to bring me back."