Chicago White Sox ink two-year extension with reliever Matt Thornton – MLB News
Chicago White Sox agreed on a two-year extension deal worth $5.5-million with left-hander Matt Thornton with conditional option for 2014 on Sunday, according to sources. Thornton, a competitor for closer position in the team will have a further $6-million
in 2014 with $1-million buyout subjected to his performance. It is the last season of Thornton’s $3-million deal with the club.
Franchise’s primary choice for 2011 season as closer the 34-year-old was present at his extension on Sunday in front of the media.
"It was an easy choice with an organization like this with what they've done the last five months or so, maintaining the core guys, adding the pieces and expecting to win," Thornton said. "That's my goal, is to win at least one World Series."
Thornton was on the road to position along with fellow Jesse Crain, Chris Sale, and right handed Sergio Santos. Chris Sale is a young 21-year-old new comer in the White Sox who was ambitious for a comeback in the team after playing half of the 2010 season.
Jesse Crain and Sergio Santos both are veterans and experience at the Majors level.
Matt has high chances to be a closer in this season as he has posted 2.67 ERA in 60 games in 2010, the same he was called for American League All-Star selection. It was his performance that led him to career high eight saves and highest 81 strike-outs among
AL relievers. The passion to the game reflects from his commitment in the field.
"I don't care, whatever you want me to do," he said with a laugh. "I've made that clear I will do what they want even before the deal. They gave me security and, trust me; my goal is to stay in Chicago [the] rest of my career."
Thornton is possible closer in new line-up as said by the manager Ozzie Guillen. Thornton has posted 26-23 record with 3.55 ERA and struck-out 436 with 17 saves in his 7 year MLB career. He started his career from Seattle Mariners in 2004 and proved his
strength as a relief pitcher.
In last game against Kansas City Royals, the White Sox failed to break the losing streak and lost 8-3. Mark Buehrle appeared in his second spring outing and was overthrown by opponents when he went for five runs on nine hits in three innings. The club has
lost six of their first seven games, in Cactus League Spring Training. The AL Central franchise is heading towards Arizona for their eighth game of CL against Cleveland Indians with the hope to make a mark in the League.
The up-coming regular season is the club’s challenge, according to manager Ozzie who have expectation from Thornton. According to experts Cactus League is a real challenge for the White Sox.
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