Astros re-sign Blum to one-year deal

October 30, 10:27 PMHouston Astros ExaminerStephen Goff

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Veteran infielder Geoff Blum re-signed with the Houston Astros Friday, agreeing to a one-year, $1.5 million contract with a $1.65 million mutual option for 2011. (AP Photo)

Veteran infielder Geoff Blum represents a positive influence in the Houston Astros clubhouse, which contributed to general manager Ed Wade and manager Brad Mills' decision to bring him back for the 2010 season.  

The Astros re-signed Blum Friday to a one-year, $1.5 million contract, with a $1.65 million mutual option for 2011, according to MLB.com

After getting off to a fast start in April, the 36-year-old Blum hit .247 with 10 homers and 49 RBI over 120 games this season. 

Originally, Blum was set to platoon at third base with Aaron Boone in order to bridge the gap until top-notch prospect Chris Johnson earned the job on a full-time basis.

When Boone underwent open-heart surgery in March, Blum took over the starting job while Johnson continued his development at Triple-A Round Rock.  

Although the re-signing of Blum, who made $1.2 million this season, contradicts the Astros' intent to get younger and trim payroll, Wade and Mills believe his influence can help Johnson and shortstop prospect Tommy Manzella transition into everyday starters.

In 2008, Blum returned to Houston for a second stint after spending the 2002-03 seasons playing for the Astros. As a member of the Chicago White Sox in 2005, Blum earned a World Series ring in the sweep over Houston.

"I'm excited to be coming back to Houston," Blum said Friday. "The fans have been great during my time there. I'm going to listen to Brad and I know I'll get the at-bats as the organization brings Johnson along."

At this point, the Astros face several questions regarding the left side of the infield.

Is Johnson or Manzella ready to be full-time starters? Should Jeff Keppinger get a look at third base? What about six-time All-Star Miguel Tejada?

With Blum set to return next season, he's simply an additional safe option just in case the Astros don't re-sign Tejada or Johnson and Manzella need further development. 

"We're trying to get better and I've only heard great things about Brad," Blum added. "I appreciate how the organization views me and it's special to be able to return to Houston and continue the work my family and I do in the community."