Jose Tabata Agrees to 6 Year Extension with Pirates

The Pittsburgh Pirates were able to lock up one of the players making up their young core yesterday. The club reached an agreement with outfielder Jose Tabata on a 6 year deal that includes 3 additional option years.

Tabata’s deal is guaranteed through 2016. Here is the contract structure according to Enrique Rojas of ESPN.com:

"His salary increases to $500,000 this season, along with a $1 million signing bonus in 2011. Tabata will make $750,000 in 2012, $1 million in 2013, $3 million in 2014, $4 million in 2015 and $4.5 million in 2016."

Pittsburgh also has a trio of team options from 2017-2019 that are worth a total of $37.25 million.

Pittsburgh acquired Tabata from the Yankees as the 2008 deadline approached in the deal that sent Damaso Marte and Xavier Nady to New York.

After splitting the next season between Double and Triple-A, Tabata debuted for the Buccos in 2010.  Over his 102 games last year, Tabata maintained a line of .299/.346/.400 with 29 extra base hits and 19 stolen bases.

Though he’s dealt with injuries in 2011, Tabata has been able to remain a productive player for the Pirates.  The 23 year old has already surpassed last year’s walk total in far less at bats, and while his average is down to .264, he’s managed to get on base at a clip of .351.

Pittsburgh is also reportedly in the process of extending another young player, second baseman Neil Walker.

For more on the Pirates, be sure to check out Rum Bunter.