Giants, Pence to talk about new deal
San Francisco Giants outfielder Hunter Pence told CSN Bay Area after Friday night's game against the San Diego Padres that he and the team are set to talk about a contract extension.
Giants CEO Larry Baer and Pence spoke at Pence's locker after the game while reporters were present. Baer said he only congratulated Pence for winning the team's Willie Mac Award, given to the team's most inspirational player. However, Pence said the two sides are set to discuss a contract extension before free agency starts.
"They're about to get back to me, seriously," Pence said. "So we're either really close or really far away."
Pence said a deal could be worked out before he files for free agency. His contract is up at the end of the season.
"Yeah, I'll know shortly," Pence said. "We'll just say we're talking, I guess."
General manager Brian Sabean has said that re-signing Pence is the team's biggest priority this offseason. The Giants also hope to hang on to pitchers Tim Lincecum and Javier Lopez.
Pence, 30, has a batting line of .282/.339/.481 with 26 home runs and 94 RBIs, and started each of the first 160 games this year. He has said that he would be willing to avoid free agency and re-sign with the Giants.
