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Belliard signs extension

Ronnie Belliard, right, thinks the Nationals are headed in the right direction. Associated Press (Associated Press / The Spokesman-Review)
Associated Press The Spokesman-Review
Ronnie Belliard, right, thinks the Nationals are headed in the right direction. Associated Press (Associated Press / The Spokesman-Review)

Infielder Ronnie Belliard and the Washington Nationals agreed Monday to a $3.5 million, two-year contract extension.

“They have a good thing going here,” the 32-year-old Belliard said.

He is second on the club with a .305 batting average and has five home runs.

Giambi practicing

Jason Giambi took 38 swings in Tampa, Fla., during his first on-field batting practice session since hurting his left foot two months ago.

The New York Yankees designated hitter said he hopes to rejoin the Yankees by August.

Clearing the bases

Astros center fielder Hunter Pence was placed on the 15-day disabled list because of an injured wrist. … Mets pitcher Pedro Martinez resumed pitching to hitters after a 19-day hiatus as part of his recovery for rotator cuff surgery, throwing 50 pitches in a simulated game at Port St. Lucie, Fla., against Mets’ minor league players. … The Texas Rangers sent inconsistent starter Robinson Tejeda back to the minor leagues and recalled left-hander John Rheinecker from Oklahoma. … The Detroit Tigers purchased the contract of infielder Mike Hessman from Triple-A Toledo and optioned outfielder Timo Perez to Toledo. … The Los Angeles Dodgers called up reliever Eric Hull and sent left-hander Eric Stults to the minors.