ALCS hero Konerko signs deal with ChiSox

Paul Konerko decided to stay with the World Series champion Chicago White Sox, agreeing Wednesday to a $60 million, five-year contract.

The first baseman led the White Sox with 40 homers and 100 runs batted in last season, hitting .283. He was Most Valuable Player of the American League Championship Series win over the Los Angeles Angels after hitting two homers and seven RBIs.

“You have family, all things came into play,” Konerko said. “At the end of the day, ‘OK, I’m a baseball player and where am I going to feel the best?’ “

A two-time All-Star, Konerko had an $8.75 million base salary last season, then became a free agent after the Series. Last off-season, Chicago decided not to discuss an extension.

Konerko also was courted by the Angels, who offered just more than $60 million for five years, and Baltimore, which proposed a $65 million, five-year deal.

Clearing the bases

Outfielder Brian Giles has agreed to return to the San Diego Padres with a three-year, $30 million dollar contract. … Barry Bonds told the players’ association he plans to play for the United States in next year’s inaugural World Baseball Classic. … Philadelphia agreed to an $800,000, one-year contract with free-agent reliever Julio Santana. … Kelly Stinnett replaced John Flaherty as the New York Yankees’ backup catcher, agreeing to a $650,000, one-year contract. … The City of Portland and the Portland Beavers have agreed to keep the owners of the Triple-A team running PGE Park through 2010.