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Chappel Signs Extension
October 20, 2083
Al Vincent
Staff Writer
While the Broncos' season is now at an end, it doesn't mean that general manager John Mounts is lacking for things to do. Priority number one was getting catcher Lee Chappel signed to a long-term contract before he could enter free agency. Today, that was accomplished. Reportedly, Chappel has inked a six year deal worth $9.88 million per year. That will make the 32 year old Chappel, who was previously making $7.3 million per year, the highest paid catcher in the league, surpassing Nashville's Daniel Lane, who is making $8.3 million per year. It is an expensive deal, to be sure, but one that Mounts felt was imperative to keeping the Broncos among the best teams in the American League. "Lee is the best catcher in the game, and our best hitter, period," Mounts said. "When you have a player of his caliber, you don't let him get away," he continued. Chappel won the 2073 Rookie of the Year award, has gone to seven All Star games, won the 2081 Silver Slugger Award, and is a front-runner to win the award again this season. His 1.055 OPS this year led all of baseball. Chappel, who was drafted by Denver in 2071 and has never played anywhere else, was glad to get the contract done. "I think I speak for everyone on this team when I say that we have unfinished business," he said, "I don't intend to leave Denver without a championship."
Two other important players are in a position to become free agents in the upcoming offseason: right-fielder Asbel Fuentez and relief pitcher Fred Lemire. When asked about them, Mounts said that discussions were going on, but neither had agreed to a new contract yet. He did seem hopeful that Fuentez's contract, at least, would be taken care of soon.
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