Jason Giambi's comeback trail didn't end when the Yankees were eliminated from the playoffs. The slugger, who admitted using steroids before the 2005 season and didn't shake out of a horrible slump until June, has signed an endorsement deal with Reebok, ESPN reported on Thursday.

It was the latest good news for Giambi, who was named the AL's Comeback Player of the Year by fans. He hit 32 home runs and drove in 87 runs this season for the Yankees.

But things were much bleaker at the start of the season. After the admission of steroid use to a federal grand jury, Giambi lost endorsement deals with Pepsi and Arm & Hammer. And he struggled to find a rythm on the field.

But after a big finish to the season, he's back on the map. The deal he signed with Reebok includes shoes and batting gloves, according to the ESPN report.

"We are excited to have Jason Giambi join our family," said John Lynch, Reebok's vice president of sports marketing, in an interview with ESPN. "Being named this year's American League Comeback Player of the Year is a true testament to Jason's determination and work ethic."

Giambi also endorses Louisville Slugger, which still makes his bats.

"This deal takes the Comeback Player of the Year Award to a new level," David Carter, executive director of USC's Sports Business Institute, told ESPN. "Will he be a good spokesman? Much like any controversial figure, I think that those who were supportive of him in the beginning are even moreso today and those who feel as though he cheated fans probably have not changed their position."

MORE FROM BASEBALL

Baseball Section Front

Braves send Javy Vazquez Yankees for Cabrera   CTB: Cashman appears to rule out Damon, Holliday Yankees only team to pay luxury tax for 2009 CTB: Four teams going after Jason Bay? Really? NH woman convicted in Sox-Yankees killing trial Nationals, Marquis finalize $15M, 2-year deal CTB: Mets reportedly talk to Pedro about return CTB: Milton Bradley — ‘everyone gets him wrong’ DeMarco: Trader Jack turns around M’s quickly APNewsBreak: Sources: MLB, umps near new deal Baseball Section Front   Add Baseball headlines to your news reader: