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Colorado Rockies Ink Shortstop Ezequiel Tovar to Lucrative Deal
The Colorado Rockies made a significant move in securing the services of shortstop Ezequiel Tovar by finalizing a substantial $63.5 million, seven-year contract on Tuesday. This deal, touted as a pivotal step for the franchise, includes a team option for 2031 that could potentially elevate the total value to an impressive $84 million over an eight-season span.
At the young age of 22, Tovar stands to receive a generous $1.5 million signing bonus along with escalating salaries as part of the agreement. His compensation plan includes $1.5 million for the current season, followed by $4 million in 2025, $5 million in 2026, $8 million in 2027, $11 million in 2028, $14 million in 2029, and a peak salary of $16 million in 2030. Moreover, the Rockies hold a valuable option for the 2031 season, priced at $23 million, with a $2.5 million buyout clause.
The lucrative terms of this contract supersede a previously arranged one-year deal announced on Feb. 29, which had outlined a significantly lower salary structure for Tovar. Despite the initial agreement, the Rockies’ management expressed unwavering confidence in the young shortstop’s abilities, positioning him as a cornerstone of the franchise moving forward.
Reflecting on Tovar’s promising trajectory, Rockies general manager Bill Schmidt lauded the Venezuelan native’s achievements within the sport. Schmidt highlighted Tovar’s emergence as one of the premier shortstops in baseball, underscoring his pivotal role in shaping the team’s future.
Tovar’s journey to the majors commenced with his debut on Sept. 22, 2022, a milestone that marked the beginning of his ascendancy within the league. Notably, Tovar etched his name in the history books last season by becoming the youngest Rockies player to secure a spot in the opening day lineup, achieving this milestone at the tender age of 21 years and 240 days. His on-field performance in the previous season further solidified his standing, as he compiled impressive statistics including a batting average of .253, 15 home runs, 73 RBIs, and 11 stolen bases. Despite a formidable offensive output, Tovar showcased defensive prowess as well, setting a rookie shortstop record with a stellar .988 fielding percentage, surpassing the previous mark set by former Rockies star Troy Tulowitzki in 2007.
Having initially inked a deal with the Rockies in 2017, securing an $800,000 bonus, Tovar’s journey culminates in this groundbreaking contract that cements his future with the franchise. The long-term commitment between Tovar and the Rockies underscores the team’s faith in his potential as a vital asset in their quest for sustained success on the baseball diamond.
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