Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports

Ozzie Albies explains why he chose to sign contract extension

Originally posted on Larry Brown Sports | By Larry Brown | Last updated 4/12/19

Ozzie Albies and his representation took heat on Thursday when news of the second baseman’s contract extension with the Atlanta Braves was revealed.

Albies, an All-Star in 2018, signed a seven-year, $35 million extension that can max out at $45 million over nine years thanks to two options for the Braves. The extension was panned by many and even called the “worst contract ever” by some because of its seeming below-market value.

Though many feel he gave the Braves too good of a deal and sold himself too short, Albies said he signed the deal to give his family security.

#Braves' Albies on contract: “I look at it as, it’s not just for money. Because I’m not playing for money. I’m playing for my career. And I took it because I want my family to be safe.”

— David O'Brien (@DOBrienATL) April 11, 2019

Albies also emphasized that he loves the Braves and wants to spend his future with the team.

Albies on Acuña signing impacting his decision: "We’re more than best friends, we’re brothers. I love him. It wasn’t just because of him, because I love everybody on the team. And I love being where I’m at, being part of the Braves. I want to be a Brave for the rest of my life.”

— David O'Brien (@DOBrienATL) April 11, 2019

Even though he’s been very productive early in his career, Albies’ total earnings have been probably around $1 million, including his international signing bonus. That’s not the kind of money you would expect an MLB All-Star to have earned.

Even if he’s sacrificing the chance to earn much more in the future, Albies knows no matter what he has $35 million coming to him, and that seems like all the difference for him.

This article first appeared on Larry Brown Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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