By Adam Allington, St. Louis Public Radio
St. Louis, MO – The St. Louis Cardinals held an official press conference on Thursday to announce the signing of outfielder Matt Holliday.
The 7-year $120 million deal is the largest contract in the team's 128-year history.
Traded from Oakland last July Matt Holliday hit .353 and added 13 home runs and 55 RBI in 63 games for the Redbirds, helping the team to win the NL Central Title.
In his remarks at Busch Stadium Holliday said the respect he held for his teammates here in St. Louis played a big part in his decision to stay
"You know all those guys and Albert in particular did weigh into my decision and you know hopefully he'll be here for the rest of his career and we can do some damage," said Holliday.
Holliday did say that he had offers from other teams but he would not be specific.
The deal likely sets a floor for the upcoming contract talks with 3-time NL MVP Albert Pujols, when his contract expires in 2011.