Watch CBS News

Closer Jose Leclerc, Rangers Agree To $14.75M, 4-Year Deal

SURPRISE, Ariz. (CBSDFW.COM/AP) — Right-hander Jose Leclerc and the Texas Rangers have agreed to a $14.75 million, four-year contract, a deal that covers the seasons the closer would be eligible for salary arbitration.

Texas has options for 2023 and 2024, the first two seasons after he would be eligible for free agency.

Texas Rangers v Detroit Tigers
DETROIT, MI - JULY 8: Jose Leclerc #62 of the Texas Rangers pitches during the sixth inning of the game against the Detroit Tigers at Comerica Park on July 8, 2018 in Detroit, Michigan. (Photo by Leon Halip/Getty Images)

A 25-year-old right-hander, Leclerc became the Rangers' closer last season and went 2-3 with a 1.56 ERA and 12 saves in 16 chances. He converted his final 12 chances and finished with a 21-inning scoreless streak. He led big league relievers with a .126 opponents' batting average.

Texas announced the deal Wednesday.

The Rangers are three weeks away from Opening Day where they will take on the Chicago Cubs at home on March 28.

(© Copyright 2019 CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved. The Associated Press contributed to this report.)

 

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.