The Tampa Bay Rays signed David DeJesus to a two-year contract with a club option for a third season, reports Marc Topkin of the Tampa Bay Times.
David DeJesus signs 2-year contract with Rays
The Rays appear to have their 2014 outfield locked in with DeJesus’ return.
Brian Blanco
The Rays originally picked up DeJesus’ option for 2014, which was worth $6.5 million, according to Topkin. Total terms for his new deal have not been announced.
More Rays: Can Matt Moore make the David Price leap?
Tampa Bay acquired DeJesus from the Washington Nationals for minor-league pitcher Matthew Spann in late August. The outfielder started the season with the Chicago Cubs, and hit .251/.327/.402 over 439 plate appearances last year. The southpaw did struggle against same-handed pitching, batting .161/.217/.250 against lefties in 2013.
DeJesus discussed his new deal with Topkin, telling the reporter:
“I’m excited to be a Ray again. I wanted to get it done early, and we got to a number both sides could work with. ... Now I don’t have to worry about free agency, and I know exactly where I’m going to be.”
The Rays 2014 outfield appears set. Wil Myers will likely man right field next season, with Desmond Jennings in center and DeJesus in left. Joe Maddon should have defensive flexibility; all three players spent time in center field last season.
More from SB Nation MLB:
See More:
