The St. Louis Cardinals bolstered their offense and gave them protection at first base Saturday by signing free- agent outfielder/first baseman Lance Berkman to a one-year deal.

Berkman, 34, who spent most of his 11-year career with the Houston Astros, will primarily play left field. He likely will be used at first base when Albert Pujols is given off-days.

"We are extremely excited to have added Lance to our ballclub," Cardinals GM John Mozeliak said in a statement. "He's an impact player who not only helps solidify our everyday lineup, but he also brings a wealth experience to our team."

Berkman is a career .296 hitter with 327 home runs and 1099 RBI in 1,629 games. His career .409 on-base percentage is ranked fourth among active players and his .545 slugging mark ranks tenth.

Berkman, a five-time All-Star, has the National League record for the most RBI by a switch-hitter with 136 in 2006. He has driven in at least 100 runs six times and has hit at least 25 homers in eight seasons.