There are very few things the ultra-versatile Ben Zobrist can't do. Later today, the list gets smaller. Scratch signing a long-term contract extension off the list, as Zobrist will sign on the dotted line keeping him with the Rays through 2015.
The former utility player had a breakout season last year, hitting .297, with 27 HR, and 91 RBI. Questions abound as to whether that was a career year or if he could replicate the success.
Count the Rays as believers.
Andrew Friedman is one of the shrewdest general managers in the game, and Zobrist's extension is just another feather in his cap. While Zobrist gets long-term security, Friedman gets cost control.
The contract runs through Zobrist's three arbitration years and buys out his first two free agency seasons with two club options for 2014 and 2015. Zobrist is currently making just over $400,000 this season.
If Zobrist produces like he did last year, it looks like both sides are getting a great deal.
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