Los Angeles Angels extend second baseman Howie Kendrick’s contract for four years – MLB News
After many negotiations, the Los Angeles Angels’ second baseman Howie Kendrick and his agent Larry Reynolds have finally agreed to stay with the Angels’ franchise for the next four years.
The new four year deal worth $33.5 million has also given more confidence to the Angels organisation as they now possess Kendrick’s salary arbitration rights for a final year and first three years of his potential free agency.
Angels’ general manager Jerry Dipoto stated last week highlighting Kendrick’s sheer talent and his extraordinary baseball skills which have always helped the franchise since he joined in 2006. He has further commented on his potential extension in the contract
but did not mention all the details.
Dipoto said, “At this point, it's something we've begun to explore and will continue to explore, but certainly, it's something we're interested in pursuing. We'll find out if he can step up to the next level and start more rigorous baseball activities. I
wouldn't say Kendrys' 2012 season hinges on the answers we get this week, but the optimism we already feel could be enhanced, and we're hopeful of a healthy return.”
For many, this news spread some enthusiasm for the 2012 Major League Baseball season as Kendrick will be a part of the Angels until 2015.
Kendrick’s performance has been very consistent for the last five years with a .292 hitting average along with 50 home-runs, 305 RBIs and .329 OBP. Even in the last season, his performance was on top with a .285 hitting average along with 18 home-runs, 63
RBIs and .338 OBP. He was also considered the Angels most offensive player down the stretch in the regular season pushing his slugging percentage to .464.
Albert Pujols’ has already signed with the Angels and now Kendrick can make a perfect duo with him that will rattle many teams especially in their American League division. This four year deal with Kendrick has also strengthened the Angels’ roster internally
for the next few years and will boost their winning chances next year as well.
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