Houston, TX (Best E Casino) - The Houston Astros signed pitcher Doug Brocail to a one-year, $2.5-million contract, plus incentives, on Tuesday.

The deal also includes a club option for 2010 worth $2.85 million, plus incentives, with a provision that allows Houston to buy out the option at $250,000.

"We're very pleased to have Doug back for 2009," said Astros general manager Ed Wade. "We had certain expectations when we signed Doug a year ago, and he met or exceeded every one of them. His presence on the mound, in the bullpen and in the clubhouse exudes professionalism and the competitive fire that championship teams need."

At the age of 41, Brocail went 7-5 with a 3.93 earned run average in a career- high 72 relief appearances with Houston this past season, tallying 64 strikeouts, while holding right-handed hitters to a .200 batting average.

Going into his 15th season in the big leagues, Brocail has posted a record of 51-48 with a 3.99 ERA and nine saves in 606 career games, including going 14-14 with a 4.21 ERA in 131 relief appearances during his three seasons with Houston (1995-96, 2008).