The Cleveland Indians are hanging around in the AL Central and are right there for a playoff spot and in the midst of that the team decided to reward Ryan Raburn with a contract extension to keep him in Ohio for the forseeable future.
According to ESPN.com, the Indians gave Raburn a two-year, $4.85 million contract extension with a $3 million club option for 2016 and now the outfielder will get the chance to continue his solid season with his future secure with the team. The organization paid Raburn for his versatility and for his ability to rebound from a bad season and he is currently hitting .277 with 13 homers and 38 RBIs in 66 games and he has been one of the most consistent players for the Indians this season. Raburn was released by the Tigers last season and signed with the team in January and he has played all around the lineup and the field for Cleveland, including in right field, second base, left field and at designated hitter and he can play other positions as well.
Raburn said that he was thrilled to be back with the organization for more years and manager Terry Francona also expressed his happiness about the deal. General manager Chris Antonetti likes giving players contract extensions early and he felt that it was the right time to reward one of his younger players. The Tigers gave up on Raburn after he hit under .200 in 66 games and now he comes in as one of the top players on the Indians.
"For me, it's a great opportunity and a great feeling," Raburn said. "This organization has been unbelievable to me and the team they're building around here. I'm enjoying every day coming to the ballpark. It's been a pleasure and I think there are great things to come with this team. "
