SURPRISE, Ariz. -- The Rangers have reached agreement with second baseman Ian Kinsler on a five-year, $22 million contract, officials confirmed Tuesday morning.
A formal announcement is scheduled for 2 p.m. MT on Tuesday afternoon. The contract also includes a club option for a sixth year at $10 million with a $500,000 buyout.
A formal announcement is scheduled for 2 p.m. MT on Tuesday afternoon. The contract also includes a club option for a sixth year at $10 million with a $500,000 buyout.
"Ian stands for what we believe in, both on and off the field," Texas general manager Jon Daniels said. "He's the right person and player for us to commit to right now as we build toward a championship."
Kinsler is beginning his third season with the Rangers. He hit .263 last year with 20 home runs and 61 RBIs. The deal keeps Kinsler from having to go through the arbitration process and buys out two years of free agency. 
What this does is secure an "up the middle" defense for the Rangers, with Michael Young at shortstop and Ian at second. The Rangers will have one less thing to worry about over the next several seasons, with Young and Kinsler signed, the up the middle defense is set for a good long time. This also means that they can focus on getting better pitching (how many times have I said that?!). Still, championships are typically won with solid up the middle defense. And now the Rangers have that secure. If only we can get them to make solid signings like this with some quality arms... Johnny Out.
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