Brogna Signs Extension

Rico Brogna signed his second one-year contract extension in two years with the Philadelphia Phillies on Wednesday, this one for a base salary of $4 million.

Brogna, 29, also got a $200,000 signing bonus. He was batting .268 with 15 home runs and 68 RBIs.

"Rico has been a big part of the club the last three years," general manager Ed Wade said. "He's done a great job for us and we're happy to be able to reward him."

The Phillies acquired Brogna from the New York Mets on Nov. 11, 1996, for pitchers Toby Borland and Ricardo Jordan. He had career highs for games played, runs, hits, doubles and RBIs in each of his first two seasons with the Phillies.

"I'm very excited to know the Phillies want me next year," Brogna said. "This is a great boost to my confidence, and it is flattering to know I'm playing where I'm wanted."

Since joining the Phillies, he had a combined average of .260 with 55 homers and 253 RBIs.

"Rico has worked himself into being a consummate professional," manager Terry Francona said. "I appreciate him, the coaches appreciate him and his teammates appreciate all he brings to the ballclub."

Last year, Brogna signed a one-year extension on Aug. 11.

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