The Rangers have agreed to an extension with second baseman Ian Kinsler, the Texas second baseman told reporters following Monday's game.
The deal is worth $70 million for five years, with an option for a sixth year with a $5 million buyout. It will take effect in 2013, replacing Kinsler's option for next season. There is an option for a sixth year, 2018, that is worth $10 million and can vest to $12 million. CBSSports.com's Jon Heyman has learned Kinsler has no further no-trade protection built in, other than the 10-5 (10 years in the majors, 5 with the same club) that every player gets. Kinsler will qualify for that in 2016.
The two sides had been discussing an extension throughout spring.
Kinsler hit a three-run homer in Monday's victory over Seattle and already has two in the team's first four games.
The contract makes Kinsler the game's highest-paid second baseman (by average annual value) -- for now. The Yankees' Robinson Cano is a free agent after this season and is in line for a big payday.
In June, Kinsler will turn 30. Last season he hit .255/.355/.477 with 32 home runs and 77 RBI.
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