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The Texas Rangers and Ian Kinsler have agreed to a five-year, $75 million extension, reports T.R. Sullivan of MLB.com.
The contract, which keeps Kinsler with the Rangers at least through 2017, will take effect at the beginning of the 2013 season and includes a $10 million option for a sixth year that could vest to $12 million. The sixth year buyout price is $5 million.
Kinsler had set an Opening Day deadline for his personal involvement in extension discussions but his agent, Jay Daniels, continued talks with the Rangers over the weekend and the two sides came to an agreement.
With the extension the 29-year-old Kinsler becomes the highest-paid second baseman in baseball on a AAV basis, eclipsing Dan Uggla's five-year, $62.5 million deal by a fair margin.
A two-time All-Star and twice a member of the 30-30 club, Kinsler has hit .275/.355/.469 in six seasons with the Rangers.
Finalization of the contract is still pending a physical, which Kinsler will undergo today, followed by an official announcement some time tomorrow, Wednesday.
- Ian Kinsler, Rangers agree to five-year deal | Texas Rangers
The Rangers and second baseman Ian Kinsler have come to an agreement on a five-year contract worth $75 million that will take effect in 2013. - Ian Kinsler Gets Paid | FanGraphs Baseball
For the last few seasons, Ian Kinsler has been one of the more under-appreciated stars in Major League Baseball.