Phils sign Blanton for three years
by Scott Butler 1/21/10
One down, two to go. Two days after exchanging arbitration figures, the Phillies took care of one of their three arbitration players by signing big Joe Blanton to a three-year, $24 million contract extension, according to a team release today. The deal takes care of Blanton's final year of arbitration and his first two years of free agency.
Prior to signing the deal, Blanton requested $10.25 million this season and the Phillies offered $7.5 million.
Blanton went 12-8 with a 4.05 ERA, struck out 163 batters and walked 59 in 195 1/3 innings. If nothing else, Blanton is a workhorse. He has made more than 30 starts every season and has pitched no less than 194 1/3 innings during that time. He has a career record of 63-54 with a 4.21 ERA.
It remains to be seen what will happen with the two remaining arbitration-eligible players, Shane Victorino and catcher Carlos Ruiz.
You can view Blanton's stats here. |
