Matt Cain, San Francisco Giants Expressing “Mutual Interest” in Extension

This week I took a look at Major League Baseball’s potential class of 2013 free agents.  One of the big reasons teams and fans alike are anticipating next winter’s Hot Stove is the pending free agency of San Francisco Giants starting pitcher Matt Cain.  The 27-year-old represents one of several high-profile arms that could potentially hit the open market following the 2012 season.  However, Andrew Baggarly of CSNBayArea.com is reporting that Cain and the Giants have “mutual interest” in a long-term extension.

On top of the mutual interest, Baggarly noted that San Francisco and Cain’s representation have developed an ongoing dialogue regarding contract discussions.

Cain sat down with reporters this afternoon and admitted that everyone involved would like to have “something resolved by the end of Spring Training”.  Cain added that he doesn’t get the feeling anyone wants extension talks to “linger into the season”.

Both Cain and fellow rotation-mate Tim Lincecum have expressed interest in signing long-term extensions with the Giants.  San Francisco reached a two-year agreement with Lincecum at the end of last month, buying out the right-hander’s remaining arbitration eligible seasons.

Now, it appears that the Giants have turned their attention to Cain.  Whether he hits the open market or not, Cain figures to receive a multi-year contract worth north of $100 million.

The right-hander has been one of the game’s best starters since making his debut with the Giants in 2005.  In each of his six full seasons in the bigs, Cain has totaled at least 31 starts and 190 2/3 innings pitched.  Cain has a career ERA and WHIP of 3.35 and 1.196 with a 7.4 SO/9 and 3.2 BB/9.

For more on the Giants, be sure to check out Around the Foghorn.

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