The defending World Series champion San Francisco Giants have signed 2nd baseman Freddy Sanchez to a 1-year $6 million contract extension.
ESPN’s Jerry Crasnick was first to report the deal.
Sanchez was scheduled to become a free agent after the 2011 season, and spoke during Spring Training about his desire to remain in San Francisco.
“I don’t think it’s a secret that I’m happy here,” said Sanchez. “I feel part of the Giants family. This is a place I’d love to retire. But they’ve got to feel that way, too.
Beginning his 10th MLB season, Sanchez has hit .298 with a .335 on-base percentage during his career. Last season with the Giants he hit .292 with a .342 OBP including a .270 batting average during the postseason.
The 3-time All Star was the 2006 NL batting champion as a member of the Pittsburgh Pirates where he batted .344. He is also the first player in MLB history to hit a double in each of his first three World Series at-bats.