White Sox, Thornton Agree to Contract Extension

By Angie Wiatrowski in News on Mar 6, 2011 8:30PM

Matt Thornton (AP File Photo)

Take that second sigh of relief White Sox fans. The Southsiders announced they have agreed to terms on a two-year contract extension with left-handed reliever Matt Thornton.

The two-year deal is worth $12 million with a team option for 2014. It will not affect the $3 million owed in 2011. He will be paid $5.5 million annually in 2012 and 2013 with the option being worth $6 million with a $1 million buyout.

In 327 relief appearances with the White Sox (299 innings) he has compiled a 3.18 ERA and as of Sept 12 he led all eligible American League relievers with 12.3 strikeouts per nine innings. Thornton has a career 3.55 ERA with a 26-23 record and 436 strikeouts and 17 saves.

Thornton posted a 2.67 ERA in 60 2/3 innings last season in a setup role. He had 81 strikeouts and a career-high 8 saves.

The left-hander was also selected by the coaches' vote to the American League All-Star team in 2010, the first of his career.

Thornton is battling for the primary closer role this season alongside Chris Sale, Sergio Santos, and Jesse Crain.