Brandon Phillips, Reds agree to 6-year, reported $72.5M extension

The right side of the Reds' infield is set for the handful of seasons. Just off the heels of a monster contract extension to first baseman Joey Votto, second baseman Brandon Phillips has agreed to one of his own. The Reds have announced they have agreed to sign him to a new six-year contract, which takes effect immediately and runs through 2017.

Former Reds' general manager Jim Bowden, now with ESPN, reports the deal is for $72.5 million.

"Brandon has been an integral part of our organization, both on and off the field, as long as any player in our clubhouse," Reds general manager Walt Jocketty said in a statement. "He has made himself one of the best all-around players in the game. We think we can build a contending team around the players we have here."

Here was Phillips' reaction earlier on Twitter:

GOOD DAY #Cincinnati... Just got to say, THERE'S NO PLACE LIKE HOME!!!! Looks like y'all might have to deal w/ me a little bit longer

— Brandon Phillips (@DatDudeBP) April 10, 2012

President and CEO Bob Castellini said in his own statement: “We're excited to be able to keep Brandon here for five more years. He is an important part of our team. His talents on the field, his efforts in the community and his interaction with our fans make him one of the more recognizable and valued members of our organization."

Phillips, 30, hit .300/.353/.457 with 18 homers, 82 RBI and 94 runs last season for the Reds. He made his second All-Star Game, won his third Gold Glove and first Silver Slugger. He's also greatly endeared himself to Reds fans due to his constant interaction with them on Twitter. Last season, he even accepted an invite from a fan via Twitter and attended the youngster's baseball game.

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