White Sox, Danks agree to 5-year, $65 million deal

CHICAGO (AP)—John Danks relishes his new responsibility as the Chicago White Sox ace.

He says he just can’t shoulder the load alone.

“I’m a confident guy and I’m being counted on to win,” Danks said Thursday after agreeing to a five-year, $65 million contract through 2016. “I think of myself as a big piece, but it’s going to take the whole staff to perform well.”

The White Sox finished 79-83 last season, Ozzie Guillen was released from his contract near the end of the year. Robin Ventura, in his first manager’s job, has a team that is expected to trim its payroll of $127 million from a year ago.Earlier this month, Ventura outlined a wish list that included 30-plus starts from Danks and Gavin Floyd.

 

But even with Danks secured—at least for the start of the season—White Sox pitching is likely to be in flux for a while. Ace Mark Buehrle signed with Guillen in Miami, and closer Sergio Santos was traded to Toronto, perhaps hurting plans to bring Chris Sale into Chicago’s rotation.

At least Danks is in hand. The 26-year-old left-hander will earn $8 million next season and $14.25 million in each of the final four years of the contract. Danks, who would have been eligible for free agency after next season, said deal came as a surprise and was quickly concluded.

“It really did come out of nowhere,” he said. “It went fairly quickly, it’s exciting and I’m thrilled to death.”

A 15-game winner in 2010, he slumped last season and was 8-12 with a 4.33 ERA. White Sox general manager Ken Williams praised Danks’ work ethic, loyalty and leadership qualities.