As reported by Doug Padilla of ESPN Chicago, Chicago Cubs shortstop Starlin Castro's seven year, $60 million contract extension may take one to two weeks to finalize, according to sources. The only remaining issue is the language of the contract, nothing involving the numbers or consent of either side of the deal. The contract locks up Castro with the Cubs through 2019 with a $16 million option for 2020.
The 22 year old shortstop for the Chicago Cubs has been the face of the franchise since being called up early in the 2010 season. Head coach Dale Sveum is optimistic that Castro will not be distracted by money and will instead continue to focus on the success of the Chicago Cubs, saying:
"You hope he reacts to the point that he obviously will be financial secure for the rest of his life and now you have one more thing to accomplish and that is to win a World Series, to get better every single day."
Castro has battled through numerous slumps this year, however, seems to have excelled during the recent negotiations, batting .357 since August 8th. He led the league in hits last season with 207, and is currently batting .280 with 61 RBIs, 59 runs and 12 home runs.
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