Twins Lock Up Denard Span With Five-Year Deal

Over the past two seasons, Denard Span has proven to be a valuable asset for the Minnesota Twins. The 26-year-old can hit well for average, he draws a good number of walks, and he's quick on the basepaths. Recognizing this, the Twins have signed him to a five-year deal. From Mr. Fornelli at FanHouse:

The deal will pay Span $16.5 million over the next five seasons, and includes a club option for $9 million in 2015.

[...] Span, the Twins first round pick in the 2002 amateur draft, was the table-setter for the Twins offense in 2009. Batting lead-off Span hit .311 while posting an on-base percentage of .392, stealing 23 bases and scoring 97 runs.

In addition, Span led the league in 2009 with ten triples. Defensively he committed five errors in the outfield, but he was able to adapt to playing all three outfield positions.

The contract buys out the remaining years of Span's team control, while the $9m option in 2015 covers his first year of free agency.

For more on Denard Span and the Twins, check back with Twinkie Town.