The Miami Marlins have locked up a second young outfielder on a long-term deal. Just a few months after signing Giancarlo Stanton to a 13-year, $325 million contract, the Marlins have agreed to yet another lucrative deal with a player that figures into the team’s future.
Christian Yelich, 23, signed a seven-year, $49.5 million contract that will take him through the 2022 season.
The 2013 first-round pick tallied a .284 batting average with nine homers and 54 RBI’s this past season—his first full year in the Majors.
It’s the continuation of a new philosophy in Miami that includes signing youngsters through their arbitration years. Unlike the Marlins record-breaking contract with Stanton, they decided to invest in Yelich before he’s proven himself to be among the best players in the game.
However, the long-term payoff could be huge here. Yelich is considered one of the best young players in baseball. If he continues at his current trajectory, the Marlins will have a steal years down the road.
Photo: USA Today