Flushing, NY (Betting Express) - Pitcher Kris Benson officially signed his three-year contract with the New York Mets on Monday. The deal is worth $22.5 million.

The contract also includes a club option for a fourth season at $7.5 million.

Benson was acquired just before the trade deadline on July 30 from the Pittsburgh Pirates along with Jeff Keppinger as part of a five-player deal.

"I couldn't be more excited about staying here," Benson said. "Right after I came over in a trade last summer, I knew New York was the place for me. I look forward to helping the Mets get back into the playoffs."

New York sent infielder Ty Wigginton, pitching prospect Matt Peterson and a minor league infielder to Pittsburgh in the exchange.

"Benson adds stability to the front part of the rotation," said new Mets GM Omar Minaya, who was with the Expos at the time of the trade. "He just turned 30 years old and there is no doubt in our minds that his best years are still ahead of him."

Benson was 4-4 with a 4.50 earned run average in 11 starts for New York, allowing one run or less in three of his last five outings. He finished the season with a 12-12 record and a 4.31 ERA.