Jaime Garcia Signs 4 Year Extension with Cardinals
By Editorial Staff
The St. Louis Cardinals locked up one of their best arms Wednesday as they signed starting pitcher Jaime Garcia to a four year contract extension. The deal is worth $27.5 million guaranteed and includes two team options.
Garcia has been excellent this season for St. Louis, as he leads the team in wins (9), ERA (3.22) and strike outs (100).
"“Jaime is one the best young arms in baseball,” general manager John Mozeliak said. “We are excited to have him as part of the core of our pitching staff for years to come.”"
The 25 year old broke out last season, making 28 starts for the Cardinals while holding an ERA and WHIP of 2.70 and 1.316. He was able to log 163.1 winnings on his way to placing third in NL Rookie of the Year voting.
In 2011 Garcia has improved on his walk rate and SO/9 while holding hitters to a .254 batting average.
Drafted by the Cardinals in the 22nd round in 2005, Garcia spent 4 years in the minors before claiming his spot in the rotation in 2010. The lefty put up solid numbers and was named a top 100 prospect by Baseball America entering the 2007 season.
Still, Garcia has certainly surpassed expectations and St. Louis hopes he will be one of the leaders in their rotation for years to come.
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