Braves agree to 5-year, $30.5M extension with Inciarte
The Atlanta Braves locked up a key piece of their future on Friday, agreeing to a five-year, $30.525-million extension with outfielder Ender Inciarte.
"We are thrilled to announce an extension for Ender," Braves general manager John Coppolella said in a statement. "We feel that he's the best defensive center fielder in baseball and one of the best leadoff hitters in the game. Ender brings so much to our club, on and off the field, and we are happy to have him under club control for at least the next six years."
The deal, which includes a club option for a sixth season, covers all four of Inciarte's remaining arbitration years, while adding an additional year (two if option is exercised) of control. Inciarte also receives a $3.5-million signing bonus.
| YEAR | SALARY |
|---|---|
| 2017 | $2M |
| 2018 | $4M |
| 2019 | $5M |
| 2020 | $7M |
| 2021 | $8M |
| 2022* | $9M |
Acquired from the Arizona Diamondbacks last December in the Shelby Miller trade, Inciarte is coming off a strong first season as the Braves everyday center fielder. The 26-year-old hit .291/.351/.381 with three home runs, 24 doubles, and 16 stolen bases in 131 games, while adding the first Gold Glove to his resume.