New deal for Gonzalez

TUCSON, March 18 (UPI) -- Luis Gonzalez, whose outstanding season in 2001 sparked the Arizona Diamondbacks to a World Series title, Tuesday agreed to a three-year contract extension.

The 35-year-old left fielder, who delivered the game-winning hit in the ninth inning of Game Seven against the defending champion New York Yankees, was in the final year of a four-year, $16.5 million contract.

The deal ends months of negotiations with one of the most popular players in team history.

"I'm very excited for myself and my family, and I'm excited to have this Diamondback uniform for many more years to come," Gonzalez said. "I've always said from day one since I put the uniform on here, that my career has turned around. I never expressed interest in leaving or going anywhere else. This where I want to be. I do not want to explore any other options. The fit is perfect for me to be here, I enjoy my teammates and coaching staff. When I came here, what they gave me was an opportunity. I was a player in the middle of my career just looking for a chance to try and get out there and play every day."

Gonzalez was acquired from the Detroit Tigers in December 1998, and was regarded as a solid but unspectacular hitter. In four seasons with Arizona, he is batting .316 with and average of 35 homers and 117 RBI per season.

"Our business is about commitment, a commitment from the athlete to perform to the best of his ability, and an equal commitment by management to compensate the athletes accordingly," said Diamondbacks Managing General Partner Jerry Colangelo. "Since the day that (General Manager) Joe Garagiola acquired Luis from Detroit, he's not only performed as an All-Star on the field, but as an All-Star in our community. I'm elated we have been able to reach this agreement."

"When we acquired Luis prior to the 1999 season, we knew we were getting an experienced major league outfielder who would provide veteran leadership and a terrific clubhouse presence," said Garagiola. "What Gonzo has given us both on and off the field in the last four years has far exceeded any expectations we may have had, and I anticipate more of the same over the next four years."

Gonzalez, a career .286 hitter with 249 homers and 1,020 in 1,747 games, had his 2002 season cut short by a separated left shoulder. He has reported no residual effects from the injury this spring.

"From my own selfish point of view, I'm glad he's back because he's the anchor in he middle of our offense," said Arizona Manager Bob Brenly. "He has been for the last number of years, and will continue to be for the foreseeable future."