FLUSHING, New York (Ticker) -- New York Mets pinch hitter Matt Franco, among the best in the league at what he does, today avoided arbitration by signing a one-year, $462,500 contract.

The 30-year-old Franco had asked for $500,000 in arbitration and the Mets offered $425,000. His new deal offers the lefthanded hitting corner infielder-outfielder a chance to earn $37,500 in incentives.

"Matt has a difficult job and he does it well," Mets general manager Steve Phillips said. "It's tough to come up in a key situation with the game on the line. He has the perfect demeanor for the role. We are glad we were able to avoid salary arbitration with him and settle on a contract."

Franco hit .235 with five doubles, four home runs and 25 RBI in 122 games last season. He was 14-for-59 as a pinch hitter with a homer and 11 RBI, and set a major league record with 19 walks.

For his career as a pinch hitter with the Mets, Franco has a .270 batting average with five homers and 32 RBI.

The Mets also announced today that 11-time Gold Glove Award winner Keith Hernandez will serve as a special instructor during spring training. He likely will serve as a tutor for newly acquired first baseman Todd Zeile, who is making the transition from third base.

"Keith will work with all of our first baseman in camp," Phillips added. "There isn't a person alive who knows the position better than Keith Hernandez. He'll work with veterans Todd Zeile and Matt Franco as well as offering the younger players like Jorge Toca and Ryan McGuire advice."

"It's going to be fun being back in uniform," Hernandez said. "I don't think Todd Zeile will have any problems making the transition to first base, he's a superior athlete who has made a position change before."