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Rays/MLB
Indians make big commitment to young star
Associated Press
Published March 30, 2006
CLEVELAND - The Indians locked up their centerfielder into the next decade, agreeing Wednesday to a $23.45-million, six-year contract with Grady Sizemore.
Sizemore's deal has the most guaranteed money for a player with less than two years of major-league service, $200,000 more than the Red Sox guaranteed shortstop Nomar Garciaparra in a five-year deal in March 1998.
"I didn't expect it to happen this fast," Sizemore said. "Last year, I was just trying to make the team."
Sizemore's hustle and humility have made him a favorite with teammates and fans. The Indians' female fan base has taken a particular liking to him: The team sold 200 "Mrs. Sizemore" T-shirts on the first day they were made available at Jacobs Field.
His new status as a millionaire shouldn't hurt his popularity.
"I'm still going to play the game the same way," Sizemore, 23, said. "I want to be here for a long time."
Sizemore batted .289 with 22 homers, 52 walks and 81 RBIs in 158 games last season. He also had 111 runs and 22 steals and became the second Indians player with 20 doubles, 10 triples, 20 homers and 20 steals in a season.
He was the only player in the majors to reach those numbers last season.
[Last modified March 30, 2006, 02:15:33]
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