"The Milwaukee Brewers' first "acquisition" of the off-season is a rather pricey setup man.

Free-agent reliever Francisco Rodriguez accepted the Brewers' offer of salary arbitration Wednesday night, in essence becoming a signed player for 2012 with a salary to be determined. Because he had a $13.5 million salary in 2011, "K-Rod" could be the most expensive player on the team's roster next season.

The other free agent offered arbitration by the Brewers, first baseman Prince Fielder, declined as expected. Fielder has much bigger things in mind on the free-agent market.

Free agents offered arbitration by their former clubs had until 11 p.m. to accept or decline. Accepting signaled a willingness to take a one-year deal for 2012. Those who declined remained on the market."