MINNEAPOLIS -- Minnesota Twins outfielder and designated hitter Jason Kubel agreed to a $1.3 million, one-year contract Thursday, avoiding arbitration.

Kubel, who has struggled with knee injuries for much of his career, hit .273 with 13 homers and 65 RBIs in 128 games last season.

The Twins have long thought he has the ability to give them much-needed pop near the bottom of the order, provided he can stay healthy. He showed promise last season, finishing the year by hitting .323 in his final 10 games.

Despite lingering knee problems, Kubel did seem to settle in in left field toward the end of the season. But the acquisition of Delmon Young from Tampa Bay this offseason means the left-handed-hitting Kubel can again expect to split time in the outfield and at DH this year.

Four other Twins players filed for arbitration: first baseman Justin Morneau (the 2006 AL MVP), right fielder Michael Cuddyer, and right-handers Matt Guerrier and Juan Rincon.