Athletics bring back Crisp on 2-year deal

OAKLAND (AP) ― The Oakland Athletics have a familiar face to play center field after re-signing Coco Crisp to a $14 million two-year contract Thursday with a club option for 2014.

Crisp’s option is for $7.5 million with a $1 million buyout.

Crisp, who generated inquiries to varying levels from about half of the major league clubs this winter, decided last weekend to stay put with the A’s. While he hoped to go to a contender, he did want to play on the West Coast and had a familiarity with the rebuilding club.

The A’s already lost left fielder and slugger Josh Willingham and right fielder David DeJesus in free agency earlier this offseason, then outfielder Ryan Sweeney was traded to the Boston Red Sox last week along with All-Star closer Andrew Bailey.

In the case of Crisp, general manager Billy Beane was able to re-sign one of his free agents ― which has to be reassuring to fans who have watched so many stars go elsewhere in recent years and months.