Rangers sign Michael Young to four-year deal

[WebHamster]

Oakland, CA (Sports Network) - The Texas Rangers Monday signed shortstop Michael Young to a four-year contract with a club option for a fifth season.

Young is set to take over the vacancy left by All-Star Alex Rodriguez, who was traded to the New York Yankees. Young and the Rangers agreed to a one- year contract last month and continued trying to negotiate a multi-year deal.

Young played shortstop in the minor leagues, but moved to second base after Texas acquired Rodriguez. He has been with the Rangers for the past four seasons and been a starter for the last two.

Last year, Young had the best batting average among AL second basemen as he hit at a .306 clip, while also ranking third with a .987 fielding percentage. Young also led the club with 204 hits.

The Rangers opened the season Monday against the Athletics.