The Tampa Bay Rays have given shortstop Yunel Escobar a two-year contract extension worth $13 million which includes a club option for the 2017 season.
An announcement was made prior to Saturday’s game against the Texas Rangers by Rays manager Joe Maddon.
“Yunel has been a tremendous addition to our infield and was a critical part of our success last year,” said club president Andrew Friedman in a statement. “He brings enthusiasm and energy to our group on a daily basis to go along with his abilities on the field. We are excited to have the opportunity to extend his time in our uniform.”
Escobar is coming off a 2013 season in which he hit .256/.332/.366 in 153 games for the Rays. He is considered one of the better defensive options at shortstop in baseball and has been durable throughout his career.
