Brewers sign Sheets for the long term

MILWAUKEE, April 15 (UPI) -- The Milwaukee Brewers announced Friday they had signed pitcher Ben Sheets to a four-year deal worth $38.5 million.

It is the largest contract in the history of the franchise.

To avoid arbitration, Sheets signed a one-year contract for $6 million and then began negotiations on a long-term deal.

"We are making a commitment to Ben and Ben is making a commitment to the franchise," Milwaukee General Manager Doug Melvin said. "He is our ace and the organization, as well as Brewer fans, are fortunate to have Ben as the cornerstone of our pitching staff."

Sheets, the hero of the 2000 U.S. Olympic baseball team, had a 12-14 record last season with a 2.70 ERA. He struck out 264, a team record.

His career mark is 45-53 with a 3.92 ERA.