Mets extend Trachsel

[WebHamster]

Atlanta, GA (Sports Network) - The New York Mets picked up the option on Steve Trachsel's contract, guaranteeing him a salary for 2005 with another option year in 2006.

The new deal will pay Trachsel $5 million in 2005, and essentially pushes back the vested option year to 2006, which automatically kicks in if Trachsel throws 150 innings next season.

The Mets originally held an option for next year, but decided to lock Trachsel up with his strong performance of late. He was 16-10 last season with a 3.78 ERA in 2003, and has been one of the team's most consistent starters during his tenure.

The 33-year-old Trachsel is slated to make his first start of the season on Wednesday in Atlanta.

Trachsel sports a 106-118 career mark in 11 major league seasons with the Cubs, Tampa Bay Devil Rays, Toronto and the Mets.