By agreeing to a two-year contract extension with Jonathan India last week, the Cincinnati Reds put an end to trade rumors involving him. The Reds gave him a new contract that did not require arbitration as a sign of their commitment to India. For the next two seasons, he is secure. The Reds provide him an opportunity to earn more and ensure his financial stability with the way the yearly value increases.
India might make an additional $2.05 million on top of the $5 million scheduled for 2025, depending on how much he plays. Twenty-eight games started or 400 plate appearances will win him an additional $400,000. Following that, he will receive an additional $400,000 for each of the 13 games he starts or every 50 plate appearances. In India’s contract, the last escalator is the biggest. He will receive $450,000 if he completes 600 plate appearances, or 150 games started, which raises his potential pay to $7.05 million in 2025.
India has not gotten to 600 plate appearances since his rookie season. He had just 431 plate appearances in 2022 and 529 in 2023.
These escalators shouldn’t be super difficult for India to hit, if he is healthy and in the lineup all year.
This deal protects the Reds, but it also challenges India to be the best player he can be on a daily basis.
He is one of the most senior players on the team and has shown keen leadership. Despite that, India isn’t one of the most talented infielders on the roster. You could even argue that he isn’t the most talented second baseman on the roster. Matt McLain showed promise at that position in his rookie year and figures to play a lion share of the time there.
Manager David Bell has lauded India for agreeing to be more flexible in where he plays. India has echoed that he is willing to play wherever he needs to in order to get into the lineup as much as possible.
One thing that could put him in position to reach his contract escalators is the ability to play outfield. He’s never done it, but if he can be reliable this season, then it will ensure his presence in the lineup.
