(AP Photo/Charlie Riedel, File)

(AP) -- Nelson Cruz seems to be a perfect fit for the Texas Rangers with his potent bat and big personality.

With hopes of staying together even longer, AL championship series MVP Cruz and two-time defending AL champion Texas avoided arbitration by agreeing Thursday to a $16 million, two-year contract.

"Nelson is a cornerstone of our team for what really marks the whole turnaround of the franchise. He been part of the winning core, he's a huge part of that," assistant general manager Thad Levine said. "He's been big-time performer in the postseason. He's part of the personality of this team, he plays the game with a ton of energy, a very dynamic player, true five-tool athlete."

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