First Posted: 4/5/2015
CLEVELAND — Corey Kluber has financial security and the Indians figure to have their ace for at least five more years.
The AL Cy Young winner finalized a $38.5 million, five-year contract on Sunday, a package that ties Kluber to Cleveland through the 2019 season.
Kluber, who went 18-9 last season, will make $1 million in 2015 under the agreement. The right-hander’s deal escalates to $13 million by 2019 and includes club options in 2020 and 2021.
“This is an exciting day for our organization, Corey and his family,” Indians general manager Chris Antonetti said. “In his time with us, Corey has grown into a leader in our clubhouse and an exemplary teammate. His tireless work ethic, consistent preparation and fierce competitiveness set an example for our younger players, and his presence on our team is a key reason that we are prepared to compete for a championship in 2015 and beyond.”
Last season, Kluber emerged as the club’s top pitcher and one of the league’s best in his first full year in the majors. He became just the fourth pitcher since 1987 to win 18 games, post a sub-2.50 ERA and strike out at least 260. Roger Clemens, Pedro Martinez and Randy Johnson are the only other pitchers to accomplish the feat in the past 28 years, and the Indians are hoping Kluber can come close to those numbers again.
The Indians and Kluber’s agent, B.B. Abbott, had on-and-off negotiations during training camp and were able to finalize the deal a day before he pitches the season opener in Houston.
Cleveland also is also working on a long-term deal for Carlos Carrasco, its No. 2 pitcher.
According to a person familiar with the talks, the sides are working toward finalizing in writing a four-year contract worth about $22 million. The person spoke on condition of anonymity to The Associated Press because the deal was still being worked on and Carrasco has to take a physical before the agreement is completed.
Carrasco emerged as a dependable starter last season, going 8-7 with a 2.55 ERA in 40 games. He was one of the AL’s most dominant pitchers over the final two months, recording a 1.70 ERA after Aug. 1.
Kluber and Carrasco give the Indians a 1-2 punch as potent as any in the AL Central.
