Ian Kinsler Extension: Kinsler, Rangers Reach Five-Year, $75 million Agreement

The Texas Rangers have announced a contract extension with All-Star second baseman Ian Kinsler.  Kinsler’s new deal, which will kick in next season, is for five years and $75 million.

Jeff Wilson of the Fort Worth Star-Telegram reported that Kinsler will receive a base salary of $70 million over the next five years.  The extension also features an option for a sixth year that includes a $5 million buyout.

The extension is the second highest contract paid to a second baseman in baseball history.  Kinsler’s deal with the Rangers surpasses the one Dan Uggla agreed to with the Atlanta Braves in January of 2011, but is less than Chase Utley’s seven-year, $85 million contract with the Philadelphia Phillies.

Kinsler, who entered the regular season in the final guaranteed year of his contract, could have become a free agent this winter if the Rangers declined his $10 million option.  Instead, Kinsler’s new contract will keep him in Texas through at least 2017.

Currently in his seventh season with the Rangers, Kinsler has developed into one of the league’s best second basemen.  A two-time All-Star, Kinsler has a career line of .276/.356/.471.  In 2011 the 29-year-old tallied 32 home runs, 34 doubles and 30 stolen bases.  It was the second time Kinsler’s reached the 30/30/30 plateau in his career.

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