Marlins Reel in Reyes

By Greg Burud — 12/05/11
This Marlin is a big catch. Tuesday, the new-look Miami Marlins signed shortstop Jose Reyes to a 6-year, $106 million contract. A club option for a seventh year could pay Reyes $22 million or result in a $5 million buyout. The deal is pending a physical examination.
The current Marlins shortstop, Hanley Ramirez, will reportedly slide over to third base. Last season, Reyes, 28, hit a career-high .337 over 126 games and led the National League in hitting. The Marlins had previously offered Reyes $90 million over six years, but Miami had to sweeten the deal to win the Dominican’s signature.
This off season, the Marlins moved to Miami. The move to a new ballpark has brought new uniforms as well as the potential for added revenue. Miami is reportedly willing to spend at least $20 million more than it did last season. Last Thursday, Miami signed closer Heath Bell. Now, reports say the club could still be in the running for Albert Pujols as well. Three all-stars in the Miami infield could once again make the Marlins a contender in the N.L. East.