Mets, Bruce agree to three-year deal

NEW YORK — Jay Bruce and his proven bat are headed back to the New York Mets.

The free-agent outfielder is set to return to the Big Apple after agreeing to a Us$39-million, three-year contract, according to two people familiar with the negotiations. The people spoke on condition of anonymity Wednesday night because the deal is pending a physical and no announcement had been made. Bruce will get $10 million this year and $14.5 million in each of the following two seasons. He can designated five teams each year that he cannot be traded to without his consent.

A three-time all-star, Bruce hit a combined .254 with 36 home runs and 101 RBI for the Mets and Cleveland Indians last season.