The New York Red Bulls announced today that it has signed defender Stephen Keel to a new contract. Per League and club regulations, specific terms of the deal were not disclosed.

"Stephen had an excellent season last year and was a contributor in our postseason run," said Red Bulls General Manager and Sporting Director Erik Soler. "He provides us a physical and experienced option in central defense and we are pleased that we were able to sign him to a new contract."

Keel enjoyed a breakout year in 2011, setting career highs in games played (16), starts (13) and assists (2). The 28-year-old also started in all three of the Red Bulls' postseason matches. Keel earned a spot on the squad after coming in as a trialist in preseason. He officially signed with New York on March 9, 2011.

Prior to joining New York, Keel was with then-USL First Division side, the Portland Timbers, where from 2009-2010, he appeared in 53 games. The Littleton, CO native started his career with the Colorado Rapids, appearing in 10 regular season matches. Keel attended Wake Forest University.