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Red Sox Sign Lester to Extension

The Red Sox decided to extend another one of their core players, reaching agreement on a five-year, $30 million contract extension with lefty Jon Lester. The Sox also gave Lester a $13 million team option in 2013. Pending a physical, the deal would be the largest for a pitcher with just two years of major league experience.

Lester went 16-6 last year with a 3.21 ERA in 2008.

Reaction: Here’s another smart move by Red Sox brass. Letting Lester, Kevin Youkilis, and Dustin Pedroia go through arbitration would have cost the Red Sox a lot more in the end. The players also made a wise choice, taking a lower amount of money sooner, especially in this economy.

About KC Downey

KC is the "head coach" of the Sports of Boston, LLC blog network. Follow him on Twitter: @kc_downey

Tags: Jon Lester, Red Sox