The Toronto Blue Jays have signed first baseman Lyle Overbay to a four-year contract worth $24 million (US). Overbay will earn $4.2 million (US) in 2007, $5.8 million (US) in 2008 and $7 million (US) in 2009 and in 2010.
Under the terms of this contract, Overbay is making a donation of $80,000 to the JAYS CARE FOUNDATION, an organization dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for children and youth in Toronto.
Overbay, 30, posted a .312 average with 22 home runs and 92 RBI this past season, all career highs. The 6-2, 236 lb. left-handed hitter also posted a .372 on base percentage and was fourth in the American League with 46 doubles. The Centralia, Washington resident hit .300 or better in every month except April, batting .314 in May, .310 in June, .312 in July, .333 in August and .326 in September/October.
In 572 career games, Overbay has recorded a .293 average with 61 home runs and 280 RBI. Since the beginning of the 2004 season he leads the Major Leagues with 133 doubles. Overbay was acquired by the Blue Jays from Milwaukee along with RHP Ty Taubenheim in exchange for RHP Dave Bush, OF Gabe Gross and LHP Zach Jackson on December 8, 2005.
