Giants rumors: San Francisco, Buster Posey discussing extension

The San Francisco Giants and catcher Buster Posey have exchanged preliminary ideas about a multi-year contract extension, according to Andrew Baggarly of CSN Bay Area.

The deal that Posey and the Giants are discussing would buy out the reigning National League MVP's three remaining arbitration years. While talks are ongoing, they remain in "the conceptual stage," and neither side is viewing the start of the regular season as a deadline, according to Baggarly.

Giants CEO Larry Baer told Baggarly that the team is expecting Posey to be "reasonable." The catcher will make $8 million this season - his first as a super-two player - compared to the $650k he earned in 2012. Reaching a contract extension would provide Posey and the Giants with earning and cost certainty for at least the next three seasons.

Posey made his major league debut with the Giants in 2009. The next year, he hit .305/.357/.505 with 23 doubles and 18 home runs in 2010, earning NL Rookie of the Year honors. His leg was broken during a grisly home-plate collision the next season, cutting his campaign short after 45 games.

Posey returned last season and put up career numbers. The 25-year-old hit .336/.408/.549 with 39 doubles and 24 home runs, and he owns a career batting line of .314/.380/.503.