Ryan Franklin is enjoying the best year of his career as a 36-year-old, and he's being rewarded by the St. Louis Cardinals' front office with a contract extension. The deal was announced via press release and financial terms were not disclosed, but Franklin is now locked up by the Cardinals through 2011. The Cardinals also announced they have extended the contract of left-handed relief specialist Trever Miller through 2010 with a vesting option for 2011.
"We are pleased to announce that both Ryan and Trever will remain in a Cardinals uniform for the foreseeable future," said Cardinals' Vice President/General Manager John Mozeliak.
The big news here, though, is Franklin.
"It is no secret that when we entered spring training, the question of who would be our closer was unsettled," said Mozeliak. " 'Franky' has responded to that challenge in a big way, and our club would not be where we are today without his outstanding performance and leadership."
If it's possible, Mozeliak may even be understating it a bit. Closer was a big concern for the Cardinals entering the season, and an Opening Day blown save by Jason Motte -- against the hapless Pirates, no less -- only appeared to underscore those fears. Franklin stepped in almost immediately and took the proverbial bull by the horns.
In 52 appearances, Franklin has a 1.05 ERA, 0.93 WHIP and 35 saves in 37 chances in his first full season as a closer. He's compiled 52 saves in the past two years for the Redbirds.
This isn't to discount the job done by the other 36-year-old here. Miller has put together a sparkling 1.77 ERA in 56 relief appearances. His job is especially important in Tony La Russa's bullpen, considering the manager's penchant for playing matchups late in games.
While the signings should be exciting for the Cardinals and their fans, they are probably more exciting for the pitchers. Miller is a journeyman on his seventh team and Franklin struggled mightily as a starter for years until finally finding his calling in the ninth inning -- making his first All-Star team this season.
