Killswitch

Manny Corpas' clutch relief work as the Rockies' closer last year was a big reason they made it to the World Series. Now, the team has rewarded him with the longest extension it has ever given a reliever.

The Rockies and Corpas agreed to a four-year, $8 million extension. It continues a trend of the team locking up its young core players with less than two years experience. Earlier this offseason, shortstop Troy Tulowitzki received a six-year, $31 million extension despite the fact he has less than two years in the big leagues.

Corpas' extension contains two option years, covering his final arbitration-eligible season and his first year of free agency. If exercised, Corpas' deal will be worth $22 million.

It's the longest extension ever given to a closer with less than two years' experience.

The agreement was first reported by The Denver Post.

Corpas, 25, became the Rockies' closer on July 7 last season and successfully converted 19 of 20 save chances with a 2.08 ERA. In addition, he had five postseason saves.

"We are extremely pleased in the commitment the Rockies have extended to Manny," Tom O'Connell, Corpas' agent told MLB.com. "He's every excited to be a part of the Rockies for many years to come.

"That says a lot about the Rockies and their commitment to winning, and keeping that core of young players together. It's a great day if you're a Rockies fan."

Corpas, who is from Panama, is among the first wave of players to graduate from the Rockies' fledgling Latin American program. He made his first big league appearance on July 18, 2006, and is 5-4 with a 2.53 ERA in 113 career appearances, including 78 last season.

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