ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. — Hard-throwing right-hander German Marquez, whom manager Bud Black says has a chance to be one of the best pitchers in baseball, has reached a five-year, $43 million contract extension with the Rockies, a major-league source confirmed Tuesday night.
The deal, is pending a physical and has not been confirmed by the Rockies. According to the source, the contract negotiations have been going on for about a month.
Marquez, 24, set a franchise record last season with 230 strikeouts. He blossomed in the second half of the season, posting a 2.47 ERA over his final 113 innings, surrendering more than three runs only once, with 15 quality starts out of a possible 17.
Marquez opened the 2019 season with a gem, allowing one run on two hits across six innings and striking out seven.
During spring training, Black praised Marquez, saying he has a chance to get even better.
“He’s got weapons. I like the poise he’s exhibited that last couple of years,” Black said. “There has been great growth in that area. There is confidence. He’s developing into one of the best pitchers in the National League, for sure, and maybe all of baseball.”
The deal covers the 2019 through 2023 seasons, but also includes a club option that could turn into a mutual option for the 2024 season.
