Nats renew Zimmerman's contract

[BronxBomberz]

The Nationals renewed the contract of third baseman Ryan Zimmerman on Saturday. He will make $465,000 for the 2008 season.

General manager Jim Bowden reiterated that both parties are on good terms and are willing to negotiate a multiyear deal. Vowing not to break the bank, the Nationals are willing to give Zimmerman a contract that is similar to Rockies shortstop Troy Tulowitzki, who signed a six-year, $31 million contract on Jan. 23. Sources have indicated that Zimmerman wants a bigger deal.

"We are going forward to get a multiyear deal done," Bowden said. "I'm very hopeful that it does take place at some point. We want Ryan to start and finish his career as a National. As I told him yesterday, 'I look forward to the day that number 11 is hanging on the outfield wall' -- the first Washington National to retire in 20 years."

In 2007, Zimmerman hit .266 with 24 home runs and 91 RBIs. It marked the second-consecutive season in which he drove in 90 or more runs.

In March of 2007, the Nationals renewed Zimmerman's contract for $400,000. Zimmerman is arbitration-eligible after the '08 season and can file for free agency three years after that.

MLB.com

[brewersfan19]

Congrats to the Nationals and Zimmerman.

He is another up and comer. I love all of this young talent that MLB has. The future looks bright for the future and hopefully will restore some of its glory!!

[Slyder]

Why do I see the next GM of the Nats having a hard time keeping Zimmerman after this... and/or he gets some outrageous deal from the arbitor.

[Doppelgänger]

They really need to find a middle ground to keep him happy, hes an awesome young player and is becoming the face of the Nationals.

[brewersfan19]

think he is already the face of the Nats, just like some other guy in Milwaukee, named Fielder.