CLEVELAND, April 13 (UPI) -- Right-handed pitcher Jake Westbrook has signed a three-year contract extension with the Cleveland Indians, the team announced Friday.
The Cleveland Plain-Dealer reported that the deal, which covers the 2008-2010 seasons, would pay Westbrook $11 million a year. The pitcher is making about $6.1 million this year and would have been a free agent at the end of the current season.
"Jake's high level of character, professionalism and dedication to preparation factored heavily in the decision-making process for the club and ultimately Jake's desire to remain a Cleveland Indian made the agreement possible," Indians General Manager Mark Shapiro said.
Westbrook, who joined the Indians in 2000, is 0-1 this season with a 7.36 earned run average. Last year he had a 15-10 record and 4.17 ERA. Over his career, Westbrook is 56-54 with a 4.39 ERA.
