Mariners, Buhner Agree On Extension

The Seattle Mariners and All-Star right fielder Jay Buhner have agreed on a $13 million, two-year contract extension.

The $6.5 million-a-year extension covers the 1998 and 1999 seasons and has a club option for the 2000 season. Buhner is in his last year of a $15.5-million, three-year contract with the Mariners. Of that amount, $6 million was deferred without interest.

“I am very excited we were able to reach an agreement with Jay that will keep him here in Seattle for the next three seasons,” club president Chuck Armstrong said. “Jay has become an integral part of this organization and this community. He is an All-Star on and off the field.”

Buhner, 32, set career highs in 1996 with 107 runs scored, 29 doubles, 44 home runs and 138 RBIs. He became the 23rd player in major league history to post consecutive 40 home run seasons - he hit 40 in 1995.

He was also selected to the All-Star Game and won his first Gold Glove Award. His 1996 batting average was .271.