Roman Anthony Reveals Reasons For Signing Contract Extension

Most people never get the opportunity to turn down millions of dollars, but baseball players are different. Reaching the open market can be incredibly lucrative for top-of-the-line players. The years leading up to free agency can be on the light side, though, at least in terms of professional athletics.

The Boston Red Sox approached Roman Anthony about a contract extension during Spring Training, but the two sides never came to a deal. On Wednesday, however, the Red Sox signed Anthony to an eight-year contract extension.

The deal is reportedly worth up to $230 million, although that’s based heavily on escalators in the contract for various milestones, such as winning the American League Most Valuable Player award.

While money was certainly a factor in Anthony’s decision, there was more that went into it.

“I think for me, back in the spring, I hadn’t had any experience playing [in Boston] yet; I didn’t really know what to expect yet,” Anthony said in his press conference. “So for me, it was more of wanting to be here and getting a feel for the everyday lifestyle here. But, at the same time, knowing that I came up through this [organization] and always wanted to be here and knew how great this city was and how passionate this was and then, when I got to experience it, and like [Red Sox Chief Baseball Officer Craig Breslow] mentioned only being 150 at-bats in, I can tell this is where I want to be and there’s no doubt.”

This city has certainly gotten behind the team in Anthony’s rookie season. Alex Cora noted the increasing size of the crowds since the All-Star break after Tuesday’s victory over the Kansas City Royals.

The youth influx to the team has certainly played a part in their success, and also played a role in Anthony’s willingness to sign a pre-arbitration extension.

“It’s a special group. You know, I try not to look too far into the future, and we’re having a lot of fun playing good baseball right now so just trying to stay present as best as possible, but it’s super exciting when you talk about how young we are and the mix that we have of great veteran guys that we have. So, there’s a lot to be excited about, and I’m excited, and knowing that in this process was a big reason as to why I wanted to stay here and be with those guys and grow with those guys,” Anthony said.

Anthony will lead off for the Red Sox against the Royals on Wednesday night. The crowd will be behind him as the team tries to continue its win streak.