Posted at 12:52 p.m., Thursday, December 20, 2007
Baseball: Willis agrees to $29M, 3-year deal with Tigers
By LARRY LAGE
AP Sports Writer
"We're absolutely thrilled to accomplish this and keep him a part of our organization for a lengthy period," Tigers president Dave Dombrowski said.
Willis and All-Star third baseman Miguel Cabrera were obtained from the Florida Marlins for six prospects, including outfielder Cameron Maybin and left-handed pitcher Andrew Miller.
"I want to thank you guys for believing in me," Willis said. "I'm eager to join an already great ballclub, and hopefully I can help bring a world championship to the club."
The 2003 NL Rookie of the Year and a two-time All-Star, Willis is coming off a down season in which he went 10-15 with a 5.17 ERA. His deal allows him to make an additional $1.5 million in bonuses.
Willis joins a rotation that already included Justin Verlander, Kenny Rogers and Jeremy Bonderman as Detroit tries to reach the World Series again after losing to St. Louis in 2006.
