Matt Carpenter extended by Cards; 6 years, $52M

[Migrant Redbird]

Carpenter happy to be part of Cards' long-term core

With Carpenter four years away from free agency, there was no urgency for the Cardinals to lock him up. What they saw, though, was a work ethic that wouldn't wane with financial security, and that's why general manager John Mozeliak began the dialogue with Carpenter's agent, Bryan Cahill, about a multiyear deal last August.

At the time, Carpenter had not yet been a starting position player for a full year. But already, the Cardinals saw an emerging player who offered versatility in the field, flexibility in the lineup and a work ethic that, on this club, might only be matched by Molina.

Carpenter was a 13th round draft pick in 2009, a 3rd baseman from TCU. He got a cup of coffee in 2011 and was a utility infielder in 2012. In 2013, he transitioned to 2nd base, then led the majors in hits, runs scored, and doubles, winning a Silver Slugger award and finishing 4th in the MVP balloting. Fangraphs puts his value in 2013 at an astounding $40.9M.

For 2013, Carpenter moves back to third. His defense should be a little better there than at second. Rookie Koltan Wong takes over at second, with Mark Ellis signed for backup. The Cardinals also signed 23-year-old Cuban free agent Aledmys Diaz to a major league contract, implying that they want a backup plan in case Wong ain't right.

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Good payday for a fellow alum.

Go Horned Frogs.