CLEVELAND (AP) – Two days after finalizing a long-term deal with their ace, the Indians secured their No. 2 starter for another four years.
Carlos Carrasco and the Indians completed a $22 million, four-year contract on Tuesday, a day before he makes his season debut against Houston. The contract includes club options for 2019 and 2020.
Carrasco had a breakout season last year, going 8-7 with a 2.55 ERA in 40 games. The right-hander began the season in the Indians’ bullpen but emerged as a dependable starter and finished with 140 strikeouts and just 29 walks in 134 innings. The 28-year-old went 5-3 with a 1.30 ERA in his final 10 starts.
He had Tommy John surgery in 2011 and did not pitch in 2012. Carrasco was acquired from Philadelphia in the 2009 trade that sent Cliff Lee to the Phillies.
Carrasco had agreed in January to a one-year deal for $2,337,500.
AL Cy Young winner Corey Kluber finalized a $38 million, five-year contract on Sunday. He didn’t allow a hit until the sixth inning in Monday’s opener, but took the loss as the Indians were beaten 2-0 by Houston.
Cleveland also has long-term deals with outfielder Michael Brantley (through 2017), and catcher Yan Gomes and second baseman Jason Kipnis (though 2019).
25% Bonus via Western Union
