FORT MYERS, Fla. –– Jacoby Ellsbury didn't get a lucrative contract this offseason. In fact, the Red Sox outfielder wasn't even close, settling for a one-year, $8.05 million deal to avoid arbitration.
With 32 homers, 105 RBIs, a .321 batting average and a Gold Glove, Ellsbury established himself as a top talent in baseball. Although he isn't eligible for free agency until after the 2013 season, he entertained the idea of inking a long-term deal.
"There's always that possibility," Ellsbury said on Sunday. "I leave that up to my agent and I'm just happy to get everything worked out this year. As far as future contracts and stuff like that, I let them take care of it and inform me if there's any decisions to be made."
An Oregon native, Ellsbury could be enticed by an opportunity to play closer to home if he hits the market. But for now, the 28-year-old continued to shower the city of Boston with praise.
"I love playing here, it's a great place to play," Ellsbury said. "I love the fans. The fans showed for spring training just like this. It's the only place I know and I enjoy playing in that pressure environment."
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