As announced by the Rockies' today on twitter, the Rockies have decided to keep Matt Belisle around a little longer:
#Rockies and RHP Matt Belisle agree on contract extension thru 2013, with mutual option for 2014.
This is becoming Dan O'Dowd's trademark move. Last offseason, Belisle avoided arbitration and agreed to a 1-year, $2.35 million deal. Months later, Dan O'Dowd offered Belisle a one year extension worth $3.775 million. Already under contract for 2012, Belisle agreed to the recycled annual extension strategy.
Rafael Betancourt has gotten the same treatment in recent seasons. Both relievers have chosen to trade the opportunity cost of cashing in on a Matt Guerrier type deal for a rolling cycle of two year guarantees. In return, the Rockies get roster certainty in their bullpen, keeping hold of relievers who have proven capable to pitching well at Coors Field.
With this deal, the Rockies now have control over Betancourt, Belisle, Rex Brothers, Matt Reynolds and Matt Lindstrom for the next two seasons.
Danny Knobler reports that the deal is worth approximate $4.3million, though it has not been released yet how that is broken down.
Matt Belisle has hit .333 with a .357 OBP in the last two years. His two doubles in those seven plate appearances trail only Esmil Rogers' three for most on the pitching staff.