Guardians Hand Out Another 5-Year Contract Extension, This Time To Outfielder

For a team that doesn't like to spend money, the Cleveland Guardians have sure been opening up their wallets lately. Following 5-year extensions to closer Emmanuel Clase and superstar infielder Jose Ramirez, the team has now also locked-up speedy outfielder Myles Straw to a 5-year deal.

Myles Straw and the Cleveland Guardians are in agreement on a five-year contract extension that includes club options for 2027 and 2028.
— Zack Meisel (@ZackMeisel) April 9, 2022

According to a source, the deal is worth $25 million with an $8 million option in 2027 and $8.5 million option in 2028.
— Mandy Bell (@MandyBell02) April 9, 2022

The 5-year extension, worth $25M, will keep Straw in Cleveland through at least 2026, with an $8M club option for 2027 and an $8.5M option for 2028, that could bring the total value to $39.5M. According to USA Today, the deal also contains escalators that could bump the value up to $43.5M over the 7 seasons.

Straw burst into prospect status for the Houston Astros when he stole 70 bases in 2018 across Double-A and Triple-A. The Guardians acquired him at the 2021 trade deadline, and he hit .285 in 60 games, swiping 13 of his 30 overall bases after coming over. He also continued to provide his excellent defense in the outfield.

The 27-year-old wasn't eligible for arbitration until next season, so the new contract takes effect immediately.

Photo Credit: Jay Biggerstaff-USA TODAY Sports