A look back at sports
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Sports pictures of the year
From a nail-biting pass at Superbowl XLIII to a bloody WBO World Welterwight fight, here's a look at the best sports photos of 2009. Slideshow
Ramirez signs $70 million extension deal with Marlins
MIAMI (Reuters) - The Florida Marlins have agreed a franchise record $70 million contract extension with Dominican Republic hitter Hanley Ramirez that ties him to the team until 2014.
"Hanley can do it all on the field, and he's always trying to improve himself and our team," Marlins CEO Jeffrey Loria said on the team's Web site (florida.marlins.mlb.com) on Saturday.
"We are looking forward to Hanley remaining an integral part of our team for many years."
The 24-year-old shortstop's six-year deal will kick in next season. Ramirez will make $5.5 million in 2009, and the deal continues to provide increased revenue in the future.
In 2011, the Marlins are expected to open a new ballpark on the site of the old Orange Bowl in central Miami and the team will change their name to the Miami Marlins.
In 2006, Ramirez was named the National League Rookie of the Year - last year he continued his impressive progression by batting .332 with 29 home runs and a franchise-record 125 runs scored.
This year Ramirez has helped the Marlins to their best season start.
(Editing by Trevor Huggins)
