Red Sox Ink Beckett to 3-Year Extension
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Red Sox GM Theo Epstein signed hard-throwing right-hander Josh Beckett to a 3-year $30 million extension with a club option for a fourth which is based on appearances. This deal would keep Beckett in Boston until at least 2009 and likely makes him the staff ace in 2008 (if Curt Schilling follows through on his vow to retire after the 2007 season).
Although below perceived market value, Beckett (12-5, 4.78ERA) accepted the deal with fervor. "This is where I want to play," Beckett said moments after what was arguably his most dominant outing of the season (8 IP, 4 H, 0 ER). "I'm happy here. These are the greatest fans in the world".
Beckett, who is only 3 wins from his career best (15 in 2005), is motivated by the possibility of becoming the staff ace of a team as routinely competitve as the Red Sox.
In post-game interviews, both Epstein and manager Terry Francona expressed a degree of satisfaction in the deal, eager to have Beckett lead Boston's talented youngsters Papelbon, Jon Lester, Craig Hansen) into a new era of Red Sox lore.
Source
Date
Thu 07/20/06, 8:30 am EST
