Giants Sign Freddy Sanchez to Extension

The San Francisco Giants announced today that they've come to terms with second baseman Freddy Sanchez on a two-year deal. Terms weren't announced, but with the Giants holding an $8 million option on Sanchez, it's probably safe to assume that the cost for them per year will be less than that. T

That option would've vested for Sanchez on its own if he'd reached 600 plate appearances, but a shoulder and knee injuries limited him to just 25 games in a Giants uniform after he was traded to San Francisco from Pittsburgh. The shoulder's been a nagging problem for Sanchez for some time, but when healthy Sanchez has been one of the best hitting second basemen in the NL over the past few seasons, being named to three of the last four All-Star teams and winning a batting title in 2006.

"We are pleased to have Freddy in a Giants uniform for at least the next two years as we continue to improve our club", said general manager Brian Sabean in a team press release. "We saw a glimpse of him this past season and will look forward to his All-Star caliber play at the top of our lineup and in the middle of our infield. He provides a steady veteran presence and professional approach."

Because of the shoulder problem, that glimpse the Giants got this year was none too impressive. Sanchez hit just .284/.295/.324 in those 25 games in orange and black. In the past two seasons, Sanchez has only put up OPSes of .669 and .742, a substantial drop from .851 in 2006 and .787 in 2007. He's struggled a bit with injuries in each of the last two years, though, so the Giants are taking a bit of a gamble here that he'll be healthy going forwards. If he is, he could be an important addition to a lineup that needs as much help as it can get.