The St. Louis Cardinals and pitcher Rick Ankiel agreed to a one-year deal on Tuesday, thus avoiding salary arbitration. Ankiel returned to the major leagues last season after a three-year absence. He pitched in five games for the Cardinals, going 1-0 with a 5.40 ERA. In 10 innings, Ankiel struck out nine and walked just one. Ankiel shined in six minor-league rehab starts last season. He went 2-1 with a 0.76 ERA. He allowed just two walks in those six starts and struck out 23 batters.