Affeldt became the first of 171 free agents to agree to a contract, striking an $8 million, two-year deal Monday with the Giants — a team that has wanted him for two years.

"One of the things is they didn't mess around too much. That's what my agent, Mike Moye, and I were really impressed with," Affeldt said. "They came in with an offer, and it was really close to what we were looking for. The negotiation was pretty quick. They were definitely on an A-list for me. They were really wanting to get me and bring me in to help out."

Terms of the deal were first reported by FOXSports.com's Ken Rosenthal.

One of Giants general manager Brian Sabean's offseason priorities was to bolster his club's inconsistent bullpen. The Giants, who haven't reached the playoffs since 2003, often had problems in the middle innings between starters and closer Brian Wilson.

Affeldt's role is yet to be determined, though San Francisco's brass likes that he can pitch multiple innings.

"I'm thrilled to have Jeremy," manager Bruce Bochy said. "He's going to make our 'pen that much stronger. I've seen him from the other side and never liked him with his power arm. He's resilient. Jeremy is just getting in his prime."

San Francisco Giants News News » Giants sign prized lefty reliever Affeldt for $8M 2008-11-18
Giants sign prized lefty reliever Affeldt for $8M 2008-11-18
Jeremy Affeldt had considered looking for a job as a closer this offseason. Then San Francisco offered a contract the reliever couldn't pass up. MLB Hot Stove