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//  Saturday, September 4, 2010

Reeling in Ruiz: Phillies Sign Catcher to three-year extension

Sunday, January 24, 2010
Posted by Andy Ouriel

The Philadelphia Phillies recorded the triple treat Sunday.

After already signing Joe Blanton and Shane Victorino to three-year deals earlier this week, the Phillies gave catcher Carlos Ruiz a three-year, $8.85 million contract, according to Jim Salisbury of CSN Philadelphia.

Ruiz can make an additional $5 million if the Phillies pick up an option for the 2013 season.

The 31-year old catcher hit .255 with nine home runs and 43 RBIs in 107 games last season, but came into his own during a prolific postseason. Ruiz hit .341 with three home runs and 13 RBIs in 44 playoff at-bats for the 2009 National League champion Phillies.

While his offensive numbers aren't over compelling, Ruiz is one of the better defensive catchers in the National League. Ruiz threw out 27 percent of baserunners last season

Ruiz was the last arbitration-eligible player for the Phillies.

In an effort to save money two to three season in the future, the Phillies will have at least a $130 million payroll next season. The team has also committed $133 million to its 25-man roster for the 2011 season -- the second highest figure behind the New York Yankees.

Phillies general manager Ruben Amaro Jr. said he expected to sign Ruiz to a long-term deal earlier in the week. The team has no intentions to sign any other impending free agent or extend a player on the roster.

Just this offseason alone, the Phillies have given extensions to Ruiz, Blanton, Victorinio and Roy Halladay (three-years, $60 million with a $20 million option for 2014). The team also exercised a $11 million team option on MVP shortstop Jimmy Rollins.

 

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