Wong Signs Five-Year Extension with St. Louis

St. Louis Cardinals second baseman Kolten Wong. Photo credit: Taka Yanagimoto/St. Louis Cardinals.

Hilo native Kolten Wong is likely not leaving St. Louis for a while.

Wong signed a five-year extension with the Cardinals on Wednesday, the club announced in a press conference. St. Louis holds a team option for a possible sixth season.

“We are pleased to have Kolten signed for the next five years,” said John Mozeliak, Cardinals Senior Vice President and General Manager in a statement. “Kolten has already been a key part of several high-profile moments during his young career and we look forward to his continued growth and success as a member of the organization.”

Last season, Wong batted a career-best .262 with 11 home runs and 62 runs batted in. He also stole 15 bases in 150 games.

“Kolten provides an excellent example of our strategy to sign, develop, and retain the best talent available,” said Bill Dewitt Jr., Cardinals Chairman. “Kolten has had a nice start to his career and we look forward to having him be a key part of our future.”

Financial terms of the deal were not disclosed.

St. Louis opens Spring Training play in the Grapefruit League with an exhibition game against Florida Atlantic University on Wednesday. First pitch is scheduled for 8:05 a.m.