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The Giants are discussing a contract extension with Hunter Pence according to Henry Schulman of the San Francisco Chronicle.
The Giants and agents for Hunter Pence have begun discussions on a long-term contract for the right fielder, a sign that the team is serious about locking him up before he becomes eligible for free agency after the season, and that he is open to the idea.
"There are conversations," Pence told The Chronicle before batting practice.
One source described the talks thus far as "minimal," and they probably will not accelerate until assistant general manager Bobby Evans returns from a trip to the Dominican Republic. But the mere dialog offers hope for the team that it can keep Pence off the a market that sorely lacks power hitters.
Giants general manager Brian Sabean is trying to finish the contract extension before their exclusive negotiating rights are over five days after the World Series. Pence wanted to sign a contract extension after the World Series last season, but the Giants wanted to see a full season before signing the outfielder to what will likely be a contract in the range of $13M-$17M over multiple seasons.
Pence is having a solid season with San Francisco, hitting .289 with 21 home runs, 81 RBI and a .816 OPS. The 30-year old has made clear that staying with the Giants is his first choice.