Adrian Beltre is extending his stay in Texas.
Beltre and the Rangers have agreed to a two-year pact through the 2018 season worth a reported $36 million. The club announced the agreement Friday night on Twitter.
MLB Network's Jon Heyman reported Beltre, a Scott Boras client, will receive $18 million in both 2017 and 2018.
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Beltre, 37, could have become a free agent after this season, but his recent play convinced the Rangers to commit to him beyond 2016. Beltre was batting .310/.370/.571 with two home runs in 46 plate appearances entering Friday's action. Last year he finished seventh in the American League MVP voting as he compiled a 5.8 WAR according to Baseball-reference.com.
The agreement will have a ripple effect through the organization. Top prospect Joey Gallo, also a third baseman, will need to change positions, likely first base or one of the corner outfield spots. Mitch Moreland is the incumbent at first base, but he can become a free agent after the season. Texas has a glut of young outfielders, including Delino DeShields and fellow prospects Nomar Mazara and Lewis Brinson.
