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Johnny Estrada knew his arbitration hearing was scheduled for Feb. 16 in Phoenix, one day before pitchers and catchers report to spring training there with the Milwaukee Brewers.

"I didn't want to spend my first day going to court," the Brewers' new starting catcher said.

Estrada eliminated that possibility Friday by reaching agreement with the Brewers on a one-year deal for $3.4 million, a nice raise from his $2 million salary last season with Arizona.

The agreement left only one Brewer, infielder-turned-outfielder Bill Hall, remaining in arbitration. Talks continue with his representatives for a four-year deal that could be consummated next week.

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