THE ASSOCIATED PRESS
DETROIT — Detroit’s deal with right-hander Anibal Sanchez could be worth $91 million if the Tigers decide to keep him for a sixth year.
Sanchez agreed to an $80 million, five-year deal to return to Detroit, which includes a $5 million buyout if the Tigers decline his option. If Detroit exercises his option for 2018, he would make $16 million that year.
According to contract terms obtained by The Associated Press, Sanchez’s signing bonus is $4 million. He’ll receive $8 million in 2013, $15 million in 2014 and $16 million a year from 2015-17.
Detroit acquired the 28-year-old Venezuelan in July from Miami along with second baseman Omar Infante for right-hander Jacob Turner and two minor leaguers. He is 48-51 with a 3.75 ERA since making his major league debut with the Marlins in 2006.