Posted at 6:43 p.m., Friday, October 5, 2007
Baseball: Cardinals pick up option on Isringhausen
Associated Press
ST. LOUIS — Closer Jason Isringhausen will be back in St. Louis next year, after the team picked up his $8 million option tonight.The move was announced by John Mozeliak, interim general manger. Walt Jocketty was dismissed on Wednesday.
The 35-year-old Isringhausen was 32-for-34 in save opportunities, a year after missing the postseason following hip surgery. He also finished with 54 strikeouts and a 2.48 ERA in 65 1-3 innings.
"Izzy recovered from hip surgery this year to fully earn his position as the Cardinals' closer," Mozeliak said. "He will no doubt play a vital role in the bullpen's success in 2008, just as he's done in years past."
Isringhausen, who finished his sixth season with the Cardinals, said before the season ended that he hoped he would remain with the team. He grew up in nearby Brighton, Ill.
"Growing up a Cardinals fan, playing in St. Louis and winning a world championship here has been a dream come true," Isringhausen said. "I'm definitely looking forward to another year as a Cardinal.
"I am proud to wear this jersey and this is where I belong."
Isringhausen is the franchise career leader with 250 saves, and has five 30-plus save seasons for the Cardinals. He has 281 career saves, ranking 24th on the career list and ninth among active players.
