"The Twins and lefthander Francisco Liriano agreed on a one-year, $4.3 million contract Saturday that will keep the sides from heading to arbitration.

The salary represents the midpoint of what each side sought in arbitration. Liriano asked for $5 million and the Twins filed for $3.6 million.

Liriano went 14-10 with a 3.62 ERA last season in what was big bounceback year for him. His season included a 23-inning scoreless streak and a run of winning eight consecutive decisions. He made $1.6 million in 2010.

He will be counted on to be a key member of a Twins starting rotation in which there are six pitchers for five spots. Pitchers and catchers report to spring training Feb. 17."