Angels Discussing Contract Extensions With Howie Kendrick, Erick Aybar

After signing Albert Pujols and C.J. Wilson to lucrative contracts, the team is now trying to lock up a few other of their core players going forward. According to Mike DiGiovanna of the Los Angeles Times, the Angels have had preliminary discussions with the agents of second baseman Howie Kendrick and shortstop Erick Aybar regarding multi-year contract extensions. The middle infielders are both scheduled to hit free agency after the 2012 season.

"At this point, it's something we've begun to explore and will continue to explore," Dipoto said. "There is no timetable, but certainly, it's something we're interested in pursuing."

DiGiovanna speculates Kendrick could command a deal in the four-year, $34-million range, while Ayabar can find a similar four-year deal.

• Angels open contract talks with Howie Kendrick, Erick Aybar - latimes.com
  Angels General Manager Jerry Dipoto has had preliminary discussions with the agents for second baseman Howie Kendrick and shortstop Erick Aybar about multi-year deals that would prevent the infielders from becoming free agents after 2012.