Astros GM wants to discuss extension with Keuchel
Dallas Keuchel won his first Cy Young on Wednesday and now he may be in line for a big payday.
Houston Astros general manager Jeff Luhnow is willing to speak with the club's ace about a long-term extension, reports Evan Drellich of the Houston Chronicle.
"When we're talking about players entering arbitration, it's natural that process will lead to some discussion of either doing a multi-year (deal) to buy out the arbitration or years or potential free agent years," Luhnow said.
"It becomes more challenging with a high-profile, Cy Young Award-winning type of player. But doesn't mean there won't be discussions, but there may not be a deal. But certainly from our standpoint, we believe it's worth having a discussion about it."
Keuchel, who'll be eligible for arbitration for the first time in 2016, is excited to make more money, whether it comes through arbitration or an extension.
"Going from minor league salary to a big league minimum is a huge jump, and (it also is) when you increase your salary to big league minimum and arbitration and past that," he explained.
"Steps and chapters in your life and the course of your career in baseball. I think it's going to help me appreciate the game a little bit more. Because in this game, you've put in your time to get where you want to go. You get rewarded, little baby steps. I think it's going to make me appreciate of what I've done and what I want to do."
Keuchel posted a 20-8 record with an ERA of 2.48 and a WHIP of 1.02 in 33 starts for the Astros, while earning $524,500.