MILWAUKEE (AP) -- Left-hander Chris Capuano and the Milwaukee Brewers agreed Thursday on a $3.75 million, one-year contract, avoiding arbitration.

The 29-year-old Capuano began last season 5-0, then lost 12 consecutive decisions to finish 5-12 with a 5.10 ERA. Milwaukee lost the final 22 games Capuano appeared in -- 18 starts and four relief appearances.

He underwent surgery October 11th to repair a right shoulder tear. The team said at the time he was expected to be ready for spring training.

Two other Brewers remain in arbitration: shortstop J.J. Hardy and right-hander Dave Bush.

Capuano went 18-12 with a 3.99 ERA in 2005 and made the NL All-Star team the following season.

He can earn an additional $25,000 each for making 26, 28 and 30 starts this season.

(Copyright 2008 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)