CINCINNATI - The Reds have locked up closer Raisel Iglesias with a three-year deal worth $24.125 million, according to Mark Feinsand of MLB.com.
The Reds moved to prevent Iglesias from opting for arbitration after the 2018 and 2019 seasons as permitted in Iglesias' original seven-year deal signed in 2014, the club said in a release. The release didn't reveal how much they would pay Iglesias.
But the release raised a mystery about how the Reds might use Iglesias next year - starter or reliever - under new manager David Bell and pitching coach Derek Johnson.
"This contract provides both sides with cost certainty and will allow David and Derek to focus on how Raisel can be utilized to provide the most value to the team," said Director of Baseball Operations Dick Williams.
Iglesias, 28, had a 2.38 ERA and a 1.07 WHIP with a career-high 30 saves in 34 chances last season. He had 80 strikeouts in 72 innings.
Iglesias has had 24 saves of more than an inning over the past three seasons - most in the majors.
