A.J. Ellis and Dodgers agree to one-year, $4.25-million deal

A.J. Ellis and the Dodgers avoided salary arbitration, as the catcher agreed to a one-year deal worth $4.25 million, according to people familiar with the situation who spoke on the condition of anonymity.

Ellis, 33, is expected to split time behind the plate with Yasmani Grandal, who was acquired from the San Diego Padres in a trade involving Matt Kemp.

Ellis earned $3.55 million in an injury-plagued 2014 season, when he batted .191 with three home runs and 25 runs batted in, in 91 games.

Even with Ellis in line for a raise, Clayton Kershaw called on the Dodgers to retain the catcher, citing his ability to manage the pitching staff.

With Ellis signed, the Dodgers have four players who remain eligible for salary arbitration: closer Kenley Jansen, infielder Justin Turner, outfielder Chris Heisey and right-hander Juan Nicasio.