One year, $1.375 million. Looking at his 2009 contract with Texas (which dispensed a base salary of $1 million), it appears that he would have been due an extra $100,000 if he had reached the 200-plate appearance marker. And where did he finish? 195 plate appearances. I know it was reported earlier this month that the Rangers and Vizquel were close to reaching a 2010 contract before talks broke off, but I wonder if the fact that Vizquel missed out on a six-figure bonus lingered in the back of his mind when the two sides were entrenched in negotiations.

Very nice little signing for Chicago, who's getting an reliable backup infielder and above-average defender for not all that much money. Give him an extra 100 plate appearances in 2009 and there's a decent chance that he makes it north of 1.5 wins above replacement, which is pretty decent for somebody who was thought to be on his last legs not all that long ago.