Cristopher Sanchez, the Dominican Republic starting pitcher who silenced Korea's batting lineup at the 2026 World Baseball Classic (WBC), has hit the jackpot with a long-term contract extension with his team, the Philadelphia Phillies.
According to MLB.com on Friday (Korea time), the Philadelphia Phillies signed left-handed starter Sanchez, 30, to a six-year contract extension worth $107 million (approximately 161.2 billion won). The deal covers the 2027 through 2032 seasons. It also includes a club option for 2033 valued between $32.5 million and $44.5 million.
Sanchez made his major league debut with the Phillies in 2021. Last season, he appeared in 32 games, posting a 13-5 record with a 2.50 ERA and a career-high 212 strikeouts. He also finished second in National League Cy Young Award voting, proving his value. The Phillies signed the extension based on their confidence in Sanchez's continued growth.
In the WBC quarterfinal against Korea, Sanchez started and dominated through five innings, striking out eight batters while allowing just two hits and no runs. With Korea completely shut down by Sanchez, the team suffered a 10-0 mercy-rule defeat in the seventh inning.