Garciaparra to Stay With Cubs

Nomar Garciaparra enjoyed his brief stay with the Chicago Cubs so much he’s coming back.

The five-time All-Star shortstop agreed Tuesday to an $8-million, one-year contract that could rise to $11 million with bonuses.

“I really loved playing there, I really loved the experience I had in the short time I was there,” he said. “I just felt Chicago is the best place for me. I’m looking forward to going out there and, hopefully, turning this into a long-term relationship.”

The Cubs also agreed to a $2.5-million, one-year deal with second baseman Todd Walker that includes an option for 2006.

The Cubs also offered arbitration to right-hander Matt Clement. Among others, they will not offer it to left fielder Moises Alou and second baseman Mark Grudzielanek.

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Right-hander Brad Radke stayed with the Minnesota Twins, agreeing to an $18-million, two-year contract.

Minnesota also offered salary arbitration to catcher Henry Blanco -- who agreed to a $2.7-million, two-year contract with the Chicago Cubs.

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Pedro Martinez, Derek Lowe and Jason Varitek were offered salary arbitration by the Red Sox, giving the team until Jan. 8 to re-sign three key players who helped Boston win its first World Series since 1918.

Shortstop Orlando Cabrera was also offered arbitration.

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Top players involved in arbitration decisions Tuesday:

The Houston Astros offered arbitration to outfielder Carlos Beltran and pitcher Roger Clemens. Second baseman Jeff Kent was not offered arbitration.... Arizona offered salary arbitration to first baseman Richie Sexson.... Seattle agreed to a $1.75-million, one-year contract with catcher Dan Wilson.... Oakland declined to offer arbitration to outfielder Jermaine Dye.... Cincinnati cut ties with shortstop Barry Larkin, declining to offer him salary arbitration after a 19-year career with his hometown team.... Outfielder B.J. Surhoff and the Baltimore Orioles agreed on a one-year, $1.1-million contract.... San Francisco declined to offer arbitration to pitchers Dustin Hermanson and Robb Nen.... Second baseman Tony Womack and the Yankees reached an agreement on a $4-million, two-year contract.... Pitcher David Wells was offered salary arbitration by the San Diego Padres, who declined to offer arbitration to infielder Rich Aurilia.... Pitchers Carl Pavano and Ismael Valdez were offered salary arbitration by Florida.... The New York Mets declined to offer arbitration to pitcher Al Leiter.... St. Louis re-signed pitchers Matt Morris and Cal Eldred to one-year deals.