Rangers, Kinsler Agree To Extension

[Elite]

The Rangers and Ian Kinsler have agreed to a contract extension according to Jeff Wilson of The Fort-Worth Star Telegram (on Twitter). Evan Grant of The Dallas Morning News reports that it's a five-year deal worth $75MM with an option for a sixth year. That's $70MM in salary and a $5MM buyout of the option according to Wilson (on Twitter). Kinsler is a BBI Sports Group client.

The two sides were first said to be discussing an extension earlier in the offseason, but talks appeared to pick up steam over the last few weeks. The 29-year-old said he would prefer not to negotiate during the season, but they apparently got close enough to continue talks. The Rangers held a $10MM option for Kinsler's services next season, and Grant says that's when the extension will kick in. The deal will keep him in Texas through 2017 and possibly 2018.

Kinsler is a .276/.356/.470 career hitter, though he put together his second 30-30 season in 2011. He also walked (89) more than he struck out (71) and finished 11th in the MVP voting. Kinsler is a two-time All-Star and has thrice finished in the top 26 of the MVP voting. UZR says his defense at second has been among the best at the position over the last three seasons. It's worth noting that 2011 was the first time Kinsler managed to avoid the disabled list in his five full big league seasons.

The contract easily surpasses Dan Uggla's five-year, $62MM with the Braves and could impact extension talks between the Reds and Brandon Phillips. Cincinnati reportedly offered Phillips five years and $60MM recently. Kinsler's deal could also serve as framework for an extension between the Yankees and Robinson Cano. At $14MM per year, Kinsler's contract is largest ever for a second baseman in terms of average annual value, at least until the Yankees exercise Cano's $15MM option for 2013. Chase Utley's seven-year, $85MM contract is still the richest total deal at the position.

MLBTR

If he can stay healthy, great deal for the Rangers. Obviously one of the three best 2B in MLB. Now if they can just get him back to his 2008 form with the bat and keep the defense up, then they'll have a real bargain.

 

[cruzg24]

Ian Kinsler is a good player and playing in Arlington definitely extends a hitters career. He is a good player and I think this is a good deal for the Rangers.

 

[Giantmetfan07]

He just has to stay on the field. I get the sense if he had a minor injury and missed a few weeks last season, he wouldn't have gotten the extension.

Actually a good deal though. He's already 29 years old so he won't be under contract past 36.

 

[Lake Louise]

One of my favorite players to watch. He's a lead-off hitter that gets the job done and the Rangers should be set for a few more years at 2B.