Edmonds Is Happy to Stay

The St. Louis Cardinals heard stories about center fielder Jim Edmonds’ six often-stormy years with the Angels before acquiring him in March, but figured the two-time Gold Glove Award winner was worth the risk.

The Cardinals showed Friday how they view Edmonds, rewarding the upcoming free agent with a six-year, $57-million contract extension. They avoided losing the left-handed batter after the season, completing a key goal after the three-player deal that sent pitcher Kent Bottenfield and second baseman Adam Kennedy to the Angels.

The knock on Edmonds in Anaheim was that he didn’t take losing hard enough, but the Cardinals said they quickly determined Edmonds possesses what they want on and off the field.

Edmonds said he has found baseball nirvana in St. Louis, and Friday’s deal enables him to remain where he feels appreciated for the first time.

“That was a big part of it, how I’ve felt playing here the first month,” said Edmonds, leading the major leagues with a .406 batting average and .532 on-base percentage going into Friday’s games.

“I’m not a big fan of changes and moving, and the first change [the March 23 trade] was real tough, so I’m really happy right now. Being here has been great, and the way the fans have responded to me has been a pleasure.

“It’s just refreshing to play in an organization like this, with the commitment they show to their players and winning. I’m happy I’m going to be here for a long time.”

Edmonds, 29, received a $2-million signing bonus and will make $6 million next season. His salaries increase to $7 million in 2002, $8 million in ‘03, $9 million in ‘04, $10 million in ’05 and $12 million in ’06.

The club holds a $10-million option for ‘07, or a $3-million buyout. Edmonds is making $4.5 million this season.

The Cardinals have been impressed with Edmonds’ play and approach during his brief tenure in St. Louis. They knew about his talent before the deal, but said they’re getting more than they expected.

“We’ve all seen what he can do,” said St. Louis Manager Tony La Russa, who faced Edmonds in the American League as manager of the Oakland A’s. “He can beat you with his bat, his glove and his legs.

“But what we’ve seen since he’s been here is that he can also beat you with his head and his heart. That’s the type of player you want on your ballclub.”