Josh Hamilton and the Texas Rangers have finally reached an agreement on a new contract to avoid arbitration just four days before the set hearing in Phoenix, Arizona.
The two sides came to terms Thursday on a two-year contract worth $24 million, including a $3 million signing bonus to cover the reigning American League MVP's last two arbitration-eligible seasons. This of course means he can become a free agent after the 2012 season if the Rangers don't offer him a new extension in time.
While walking past a room under construction near the Rangers clubhouse, Hamilton reflected on his past and how far he has come:
"I was sweeping places out like this seven years ago or whatever... This goes for anybody. It’s awesome to think about what God can do in your life if you allow him to. It’s just amazing."
Hallelujah.
Hamilton went on to say that he'd like to be a part of the organization "not only for the next couple of years, but for a long time to come." The three-time All-Star sports a .311 career batting average after earning the AL batting title by hitting a big league-best .359 last year with 32 homers and 100 RBI despite missing most of the final month of the regular season with broken ribs.
After battling a bout of pneumonia in the hospital last month, Hamilton says he has gained back 12 pounds and is feeling fantastic.
[Dallas Morning News]
3 comments:
They need to lock him up. Stat.
Agreed KT! Tying up his arbitration-eligible years was important (I don't think the Rangers have gone to arbitration for like 11 years or something with any player) and I'm sure they'll offer him an extension in the near future.
No way are the Rangers going to let Hamms go anywhere. Michael Young on the other hand? They're totally holding him hostage.
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