Reds Extend Homer Bailey

Homer Bailey

The Cincinnati Reds locked up a key part of their rotation by agreeing to a six-year, $105 million extension with righty Homer Bailey on Wednesday. The deal also includes a $25 million mutual option with a $5 million buyout for the 2020 season.

Bailey, 27, is coming off a solid year for the Reds, posting a 3.49 ERA in a career-high 209 innings, helping them reach the playoffs in 2013.

Prior to signing, Bailey figured to be part of a solid free agent class that includes 2013 American League Cy Young winner, Max Scherzer, and righty James Sheilds. Red Sox ace, Jon Lester, could join the duo if he doesn't reach an agreement prior to seasons end.

Outside of re-signing Bailey, the Reds have been fairly quiet so far this offseason, agreeing to a two-year, $5 million deal with utility-man Skip Schumaker earlier this offseason.

Reaching an agreement with Bailey became especially important for the Reds after losing veteran pitcher Bronson Arroyo to the Diamondbacks last week. The team also saw lead-off man Shin-Soo Choo sign a massive seven-year $130 million contract with the Texas Rangers in December.

Despite these departures, new manager Bryan Price figures to have a very competitive squad with righties Johnny Cuento and Mat Latos also returning this year.